As its next ambassador to the U.S., China has dispatched a veteran diplomat known for pushing back against Western criticism — in an appointment that suggests Beijing is bracing for a period of prolonged tension with Washington.
Qin Gang, 55, who most recently served as vice foreign minister, arrived in the U.S. Wednesday to fill the post vacated last month by long-time ambassador, Cui Tiankai, according to a statement from the Chinese Embassy.
Qin said at a press briefing that he would work "to safeguard the foundation of China-U.S. relations, uphold the shared interests of the two peoples and endeavor to bring China-U.S. relations back on track.” The ties that have been opened between the countries "cannot be closed,” Qin’s said.