He studied International Relations at Oxford University from 1986 to 1987 and then began work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its Translation Office.

[1] During his tenure as chief spokesman for the ministry, Liu took questions on a wide variety of issues to do with China's relations with the world.

[8] At his farewell reception attended by ministry officials and journalists, Liu expressed his pleasure and gratitude at being able to participate in the Information Department's work in a period of complex and rapid changes for both China and the world.

In September 2015, he was promoted to become the head of the International Cooperation Agency of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, making him the top official in charge of anti-corruption effort outside mainland China.

[15] During this time, he was a key figure in Operation Fox Hunt, a Chinese government mission whose purported aim is anti-corruption efforts outside of China.

In April 2018, Liu was returned to the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, and named deputy director in September.