A life on the rails: Xue Jun

Since he began working on China's rail network in 1985, Xue Jun has earned seven train driver's licenses. Over the past 30 years, Xue has driven trains powered by steam, diesel and electricity, including diesel multiple units and bullet trains, and witnessed speeds rise from 60 kilometers an hour to 350.

The pioneering bicycle mechanic: Chong Li

At the end of Beijing's Fuxue Hutong there is a quiet courtyard full of old photos, ink paintings and birds chirping in cages. A large wooden plaque hanging above the entrance reads "Chongli Bicycle Repair Shop."

Hometown of Confucius seals own destiny

Qufu in Shandong province was the hometown of the philosopher Confucius, who lived around 2,500 years ago. This rich cultural history has played a major part in the city's economic development over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up.

Centers foster harmony in the countryside

It was a late November day. As a cold wind blew outside, warm sounds of laughter and music emanated from the cultural civilization center at Nanxue village. Inside, residents practiced traditional Chinese art forms, from calligraphy to musical instruments.

Premier urges support for real economy

Premier Li Keqiang has urged support of the real economy, focusing on the manufacturing and service sectors, as well as small and private businesses, by further reducing the taxes and fees they face.

Courts vow to fight dishonesty in workplace

Beijing courts vowed on Monday to fight dishonest behavior in employment disputes, aiming to uphold justice and help improve the relationship between employers and employees.

Nationwide probe to start in wake of deadly blast

The Ministry of Emergency Management will launch a thorough examination of all chemical factories to root out safety hazards in the wake of an explosion in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, on Wednesday that killed 23 people.

IN BRIEF (Page 4)

Red Cross to improve trust

The Red Cross Society of China will intensify efforts to improve public trust in the organization and improve its ability to provide humanitarian services, according to a plan to reform the society.

Mandarin school helps broaden Uygur horizons

As the first college graduate from his rural hometown in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Kurban Niyaz realizes the importance of language in communication.

Relocation of island residents gives Lijiang River clean bill of health

A campaign to relocate residents from river islands along the section of the Lijiang River flowing through Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, has helped restore the ecosystem, according to the city's Lijiang River Management Committee.

Measures to boost care for the elderly

China will lower the market access threshold for all nursing home ownerships, improve community facilities for at-home nursing for the elderly and train more nursing professionals for the sector to expand services and provide more employment opportunities.