On Friday, senior Chinese official Wang Yi made his first public statement since being reappointed as Foreign Minister. He promised to strengthen partnerships and safeguard China's sovereignty in a statement published on the ministry's website. Wang stated, "The ministry will work to enhance partnerships with other countries, actively participate in global governance reforms, and resolutely protect China's sovereignty, security, development, and interests." The seasoned diplomat was reappointed as Foreign Minister last Tuesday, replacing rising star Qin Gang, who had been absent for a month, raising questions about transparency after only seven months in the position.