Tobacco and athletics finding mutually beneficial blend in Yunnan plateau city

Asia's largest tobacco production base is shifting its focus to more eco-friendly practices while attempting to reshape its image as one of China's best-known sports training areas, a senior official has said.

Xi Jinping - president of People's Republic of China, chairman of Central Military Commission

Xi Jinping, Han ethnicity, was born in June 1953 and is from Fuping, Shaanxi province. He began his first job in January 1969 and joined the Communist Party of China in January 1974. Xi graduated from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences of Tsinghua University, where he completed an in-service graduate program in Marxist theory and ideological and political education. He holds a doctor of law degree.

Wang Qishan - vice-president of People's Republic of China

Wang Qishan, Han ethnicity, was born in July 1948 and is from Tianzhen, Shanxi province. He began his first job in January 1969 and joined the Communist Party of China in February 1983. Wang graduated from the University Regular Class of the Department of History at Northwest University, China, with a major in history. He is a senior economist.

Solemn moment highlights Xi's great respect

It was a historic moment for China when newly elected President Xi Jinping put his left hand on the Constitution and raised his right fist to take the public oath of allegiance in the Great Hall of the People on Saturday.

Voices across China support Xi's election, say bright prospects ahead

After Xi Jinping was unanimously elected president and chairman of the Central Military Commission of China on Saturday morning, people across the country voiced their support and aspiration for better prospects for the country.

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