Quotable

"China can use its increased influence to demand a greater say for developing countries in the international arena."

Rebeca Grynspan, United Nations undersecretary-general, saying during a visit to China. China and other emerging economies deserve a bigger say in decision-making if global decision-making bodies are to remain relevant, she said.

"China needs to know the world, and the world needs to understand China. I hope foreign friends come and see China for themselves ... and cover China in a more sufficient way."

Wang Chen, minister of the State Council Information Office, saying in an address to more than 400 representatives from world news agencies and overseas diplomats stationed in Beijing as well as spokespeople from 60 central agencies on Dec 18.

"I could not afford to offend those people by not accepting the bribes."

Wang Baolin, a law enforcement official in Guangdong province, saying during his trial in a local court. He said that bribes were always offered through powerful middlemen. He was jailed for 14 years for accepting bribes.

(China Daily 12/21/2012 page2)