Leaders make a solemn pledge

Li Zhanshu - Chairman of 13th National People's Congress Standing Committee

Li Zhanshu, elected chairman of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress, is of Han ethnicity and is from Pingshan, Hebei province. He was born in August 1950, began his first job in December 1972 and joined the Communist Party of China in April 1975. He graduated from the Department of Political Education, Night College, Hebei Normal University, where he completed an in-service undergraduate program. He holds an executive MBA degree.

Deputies approve massive Cabinet shake-up

China's national legislature has approved a massive Cabinet restructuring plan that aims to improve government efficiency and make it more service-oriented.

Ministry to beef up protection

The newly approved Ministry of Ecological Environment, which will oversee regular anti-pollution inspections nationwide, will help China protect its environment more effectively, a senior official said.

Overseas institutions banking on greater access

Overseas bankers are upbeat about China's further opening-up of its financial sector and say they look forward to gaining wider access to the Chinese market as the country seeks greater integration with the global economy.

In India, cricket takes on Chinese characteristics

India's two prime passions - movies and cricket - have had a head-on collision with China in recent times, and both sides seem to be better off for it.

THE BIG DATA

Meeting to mark treaty's anniversary

A conference on friendly exchanges between China and Japan is being planned this year to mark the 40th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, according to a senior official for public diplomacy.

NPC deputies submit fewer, better motions

National legislators have attached more importance to the quality of their suggestions and motions put forward during the ongoing session of the National People's Congress, according to the session's secretariat.

Highlights from news conference with education minister

Rankings of Chinese universities

Trans-Asian Railway construction on track

Yunnan province will speed up construction of the Trans-Asian Railway within the province and aims to complete a railway network connecting China with Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar.

Experts urge greater effort to promote mass sports

Experts and advisers involved in sports in China have called for a greater emphasis on promoting sports participation to boost the Health China 2030 initiative.