Vice-President Xi Jinping makes first public appearance for two weeks
Vice-president, presumed to be leader in waiting, returns to spotlight after two-week absence looking fit and happy at university in Beijing
Vice-President Xi Jinping re-emerged onto the public stage in Beijing yesterday after a two-week absence that fuelled rumours he was ill.
Xi, the nation's presumed next leader, arrived at China Agricultural University for a national day popularising science.
He delivered a 10-minute speech, twice as long as scheduled, standing outside in the sun underneath a banner showing the past four generations of communist leaders.
"The vice-president looked in great health," said a professor in the university's electrical engineering department, who accompanied Xi for most of his visit. "It was hot outside and he didn't even sweat that much."
State television showed Xi smiling and walking without any need of support. He was shown engaged in conversation with teachers and students.
Xinhua also issued reports of his visit with pictures.