China names new cabinet members

China named its new cabinet on Sunday at the annual session of the parliament, marking the completion of a government reshuffle. At the March 5 opening of the annual session day of China’s rubber-stamp parliament, the National People’s Congress, China announced plans for a consumer-led revival of the struggling economy, setting this year’s growth target at “around 5%.”

Ding Xuexiang, member of the all-powerful Politburo Standing Committee, was chosen as vice premier along with He Lifeng, who was being promoted from head of the National Development and Reform Commission. Qin Gang added the title of State Councilor, apart from holding the office of foreign minister, a treatment that his predecessor Wang Yi had enjoyed. Four other people were named State Councilor, including Shen Yiqin, the only woman.