The president exercises the power of the head of the state, according to decisions of the National People's Congress and its Standing Committee. In foreign affairs, the president represents the People's Republic of China and enjoys the highest right of representation of the state. In terms of procedural, ceremonial and symbolic significance, the presidency is the highest position of the state. In essence, however, the presidency does not decide any state affairs but acts according to decisions of the NPC and its Standing Committee.

(China.org.cn May 20, 2003)