China's Top Anti-Corruption Official Warns Officials: Stay Vigilant Against Infiltration and Corruption Amidst Tensions with the West

China's top anti-corruption official, Zhang Jiwen, has issued a warning to foreign affairs officials and Communist Party cadres to remain vigilant against infiltration and corruption. This comes as Beijing strengthens its national security measures amidst tensions with the West. In an article published in a magazine by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), Zhang emphasized the importance of foreign affairs cadres in the country's diplomatic work. He highlighted that they are on the front line of foreign exchanges, particularly in the struggle against hostile Western forces.

Zhang pointed out that these officials are at a relatively high risk of being infiltrated, encouraged to defect, and coerced into corrupt practices. Zhang, who heads the CCDI's disciplinary inspection group at the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, revealed various risks uncovered through investigations, including leaks of confidential information. He specifically mentioned issues such as illegal acceptance of gifts from private businesspeople during trips, misuse of public funds for travel, and illegal payment of subsidies.

To address these risks, Zhang called on officials to broaden their perspectives, strengthen strategic thinking, and remain vigilant. He stressed the need for officials to face the problem squarely and be courageous in preventing corruption. This includes expanding their international horizons, understanding the linkages, spillovers, and transferability of risks in their foreign-facing work. Zhang suggested building a robust "firewall" to prevent risks, enhancing insight with a "microscope," and preparing a "toolbox" to resolve challenges. China has been tightening its security controls this year by revising laws to combat espionage and safeguard state secrets.

The government has also encouraged public participation in the fight against spying. Leaders have warned officials to prepare for worst-case and extreme scenarios due to geopolitical headwinds. Zhang also criticized officials who have abused their power abroad for personal gain rather than benefiting society. China has been cracking down on corruption for over a decade, with at least 36 senior cadres investigated this year alone.

Tens of thousands of officials have been brought down since President Xi Jinping initiated the anti-corruption campaign in 2012. Recently, several high-ranking officials have been removed from their positions without explanation. Qin Gang, the former foreign minister, was removed in July and stripped of his remaining government title, state councillor, last month. Additionally, General Li Shangfu was dismissed as defense minister, and commanders of the PLA Rocket Force were replaced. While no official reasons were given, these moves come amid the country's intensified efforts to combat corruption and secure national security.