Cai Qi: The Rising Power Behind Xi Jinping in China

Cai Qi has emerged as a significant political figure in China, closely associated with President Xi Jinping. His recent handshake with Donald Trump during an official visit has sparked discussions about his influence in policymaking. Serving as the director of the Communist Party’s General Office, Cai oversees critical aspects of Xi's administration. Their long-standing relationship, rooted in their early political careers in Fujian, has led to Cai being viewed as a key ally. This article delves into Cai's rise and the implications of his growing power within the opaque structure of Chinese politics.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 22:14 IST

Cai Qi's Ascendancy in Chinese Politics

Cai Qi has solidified his position as the second-most influential figure in China, closely aligned with President Xi Jinping. His prominence surged following Donald Trump's official visit to China on May 14, where Cai became the first senior Chinese official to greet the US president after Xi. This handshake has sparked discussions about Cai's role as Xi's 'right-hand man,' highlighting not just protocol but also his significant influence over China's policy-making processes.

As reported by the Economist, Cai is thought to have access to critical areas of policymaking and some of the Communist Party's most confidential information. In a political landscape as opaque as China's, where the inner workings of the Communist Party are often shrouded in secrecy, leaders like Cai provide valuable insights into the nation's power dynamics. His regular attendance at high-profile diplomatic events has further cemented his growing importance in national affairs.

Cai's diplomatic engagements have previously included discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin last year, as well as his presence at the Xi-Trump meeting in South Korea in 2025, underscoring his pivotal role in both domestic and international politics. His ascent raises intriguing questions, especially considering Xi Jinping's history of sidelining or purging even his closest allies.

Understanding Cai Qi

Since March 2023, Cai Qi has held the position of director of the Chinese Communist Party’s General Office, a role akin to that of a Chief of Staff for President Xi Jinping. In this capacity, Cai manages Xi’s daily agenda, oversees internal communications, handles document management, coordinates security, plans travel, and organizes significant political meetings and state functions.

The relationship between Xi and Cai dates back several decades, with both leaders having established their political careers in the 1980s in Fujian, a coastal province near Taiwan. Xi spent 17 years in Fujian starting in 1985, during which he and Cai collaborated closely. Over the years, it has been suggested that Xi has promoted various officials with whom he formed strong connections during his time in Fujian, leading analysts to refer to them as the 'Fujian clique,' an informal network of trusted allies within the Communist Party.