Xi moved to Zhejiang in 2002, when the fast growing province was faced with a predicament - the extensive economic growth mode could not support sustainable development.

After thorough study of Zhejiang's actual conditions, Xi concluded that the province must start all over again with overall industrial restructuring. As secretary of the provincial Party committee, Xi ordered local authorities to shut down or move away highly polluting and highly energy-consuming businesses, and join with neighboring Shanghai municipality and Jiangsu province to achieve scientific and sustainable development.

Retired senior officials in Zhejiang spoke highly of Xi's performance after a long period of observation, saying that he is a man of action without making shows, an open-minded man with a down-to-earth style of work.

Xi married Peng Liyuan, a renowned Chinese folk singer, in 1987. The couple has a daughter.

(Xinhua News Agency March 17, 2008)