CCTV FOLLIES 9.1 Party pomp and platitudes

-Qin Gang's trumpets blow their horn -Xi snaps back into Beijing action after August lull -Hailing ties with Benin! -Double first-class university! -Back to school! -Bad news from Japan, Canada and US

Qin Gang is gone but his trumpeteers are still blowing their horns. The choreography of state visits has always been a big deal, but Qin Gang, both as protocol officer and foreign minister introduced “human” touches that have been integrated into the reception protocol today. The clarion call of these horn players and the staging of a boisterous children’s welcome are associated with Qin’s short but influential tenure.

editor’s note: Qin Gang’s current disposition and whereabouts are unknown.