CCTV FOLLIES 7.18 (b) Diplomacy minus the diplomat

China's top diplomat Qin Gang still missing -Diplomatic chores fall to Li Qiang and Wang Yi -Xi hosts Algerian leader -Kerry meeting is cordial -Xi has a new book out! -US is just one big train wreck

Qin Gang is not presiding as the Foreign Minister normally would for a state visit at the Great Hall, but one of his innovations is on display. The trumpets heralding the arrival of Xi and his guest were introduced to the big room reception protocol under Qin Gang’s advice.