Chinese authorities have detained two senior diplomats from the Communist Party's International Department amid ongoing investigations. Liu Jianchao, widely regarded as a potential candidate for China's next foreign minister, was taken into custody for questioning in early August after returning from an overseas trip. Liu, who managed ties with foreign political parties, had been viewed as a leading figure in China's foreign policy apparatus, which is currently facing uncertainty following his detention. Subsequently, Sun Haiyan, the deputy head of the same department, was also detained around the same time. Reports indicate that Sun Haiyan was questioned in connection with the investigation involving Liu Jianchao. These developments raise concerns about succession and stability within China's diplomatic leadership, especially following the surprise ouster of former Foreign Minister Qin Gang two years prior. The reasons behind the detentions remain unclear, and the situation highlights potential challenges within the top echelons of China's foreign policy establishment.