The U.S. State Department has appointed Anny Vu as the chargé d'affaires at its embassy in Beijing while awaiting Senate confirmation of David Perdue as ambassador.

Axar.az, citing Reuters, reports that Vu, currently the political section chief at the American Institute in Taipei, will oversee the 1,300-strong embassy and consulates in China.

Her appointment comes amid heightened U.S.-China tensions, particularly over trade disputes and fentanyl precursor flows. Vu has extensive experience in U.S.-China relations, having worked at the National Security Council and the State Department’s "China House." She was recognized in 2021 for countering Chinese influence at the U.N.

Former Senator Perdue, nominated by Trump in December, faces an uncertain confirmation timeline due to potential political delays.