China Appoints Bian Lixin as New Foreign Affairs Commissioner in Macau
Senior diplomatic appointment reinforces continuity in Beijing’s oversight of external affairs in the SAR
China’s central government has appointed Bian Lixin as Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China in Macau, confirming a key leadership transition within its diplomatic representation in the Special Administrative Region. The appointment was formally announced on 23 January 2026 through official government channels.
Leadership Transition at the Commissioner’s Office
Bian succeeds Liu Xianfa, who completed a full five-year term as commissioner. She now heads the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Macau, a central government institution responsible for managing foreign affairs involving the city.
Career Diplomat With Ministry Experience
According to the official announcement, Bian Lixin brings extensive experience from within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She previously served as director-general of the ministry’s Department of Personnel, overseeing staffing, appointments, and organisational management across China’s diplomatic service.
Her appointment follows the established practice of assigning senior career diplomats to the Macau post, supporting policy consistency and institutional continuity.
Role of the Commissioner Under the Basic Law
Under the Basic Law and the “one country, two systems” framework, foreign affairs and defence remain under national jurisdiction, while Macau retains autonomy over internal governance. Within this structure, the commissioner’s office manages diplomatic and consular affairs, coordinates with foreign governments and international organisations, and acts as a liaison between the central government and the Macau SAR government on external matters.
The role is institutional rather than administrative, with local regulation and governance remaining the responsibility of Macau’s authorities.
Continuity in External Affairs Governance
Bian Lixin’s appointment reflects continuity in Beijing’s approach to managing foreign affairs in Macau, ensuring experienced diplomatic leadership while maintaining the existing constitutional and governance framework of the Special Administrative Region.
Follow For More: LinkedIn
