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)