He is a career diplomat, not a political appointee. Nicholas Burns has worked his way up as a professional in the U.S. State Department and brings ample diplomatic experience to the table. He has been ambassador to NATO and Greece. In Washington, he was appointed deputy secretary. Under George H.W. Bush, he was already involved in all negotiations with the Soviet Union during its final days. Now, the 65-year-old is to become the new U.S. ambassador to China.