Xi Jinping: The 'mystery man' in line to lead China

America is getting an introduction this week to the Chinese vice president, who is being groomed as the booming nation's next leader. A guide to Beijing's future boss

Xi Jinping
(Image credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Xi Jinping, China's vice president and the heir apparent to President Hu Jintao, is making his official U.S. debut this week. Underscoring the importance of China-U.S. relations, Xi was given an extraordinary welcome, including a long Oval Office meeting with President Obama, an elaborate reception at the State Department, and a 19-gun salute at the Pentagon. Technically, Xi's visit simply reciprocates Vice President Joe Biden's trip to China last year, but for the U.S., the real goal seems to be getting a better read on the man about to lead the world's most populous country. Here, a guide to the "mystery man" in line for China's presidency:

When will Xi become China's leader?

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