A year of deepening reform

There are some who may have raised their eyebrows at China's growth target of around 7.5 percent for 2014.

A stronger China for peace

Now it is official.

Military spending justified

China plans to raise its defense budget by 12.2 percent to 808.2 billion yuan ($132 billion) in 2014, according to a budget report to be reviewed by the national legislature on Wednesday. In 2013, China spent 720.2 billion yuan on national defense, a 10.7-percent increase on the previous year.

A tale of three countries' debts

The world is keeping a close watch on the Ukrainian crisis and intensified tensions between the United States and Russia. Ukraine was already facing a crisis when ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich visited China and Russia in December. The main purpose of Yanukovich's visit to the two countries was to seek financial help to avoid a sovereign debt crisis.

Letters

Result of good move awaited

From the Chinese press

Support smoking ban in public

New stage in anti-corruption fight

For a country that still needs to overcome a series of institutional difficulties and obstacles to comprehensively deepen reforms, China must launch a resolute and deeper anti-corruption campaign to dig out both high-ranking "tigers" and low-level "flies".

Cartoon

1914 and raising a storm in a teacup

Historians and journalists, especially in the English-speaking world, are fond of swooping on a coincidence of dates and making speculative connections, providing intellectual depth to good stories and clever comments. It is not surprising, therefore, that comparisons are being drawn between the current international situation and that in 1914, on the eve of World War I.

Sharp criticism welcome

The annual national sessions of the National People's Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference are an occasion to hear what the participants say on State affairs. Their opinions or suggestions can make a difference to the making of a particular policy.

Work with Russia on Ukraine

As the West has reacted with alarm to Russia's approval of military action in Ukraine, tensions might further escalate.

Control coal use and reduce smog

More than 10 percent of China's land area has been shrouded in thick smog for the past few days, with the level of PM2.5 (particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less and very harmful to humans) frequently exceeding the danger level in many cities.