On 14 March 2013, Xi Jinping was formally named president of the People's Republic of China, consolidating his leadership after having already secured the positions of general secretary of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission.
His ascension marked the beginning of a new era in Chinese politics, characterised by a centralisation of power unprecedented in recent decades.
Xi's tenure would go on to be defined by sweeping anti-corruption campaigns, a tightening grip on civil liberties, and an assertive foreign policy that reshaped China's global standing.
This moment cemented his authority over the world's most populous nation, laying the foundation for the transformative—and controversial—years to follow.
