Our staff reporters revisit the major stories of an extraordinary 12 months.

Instability and uncertainty loom large as the world enters 2012, a year in which China should play an even greater role in global affairs, said Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi.

Three out of every 10 people are over 60 by 2040, but paid help for them is in short supply.

Lack of supplies drives transport operators to frustration, Tang Yue reports from Hunan province.

Premier Wen Jiabao has called for confidence in surmounting economic difficulties and stabilizing growth as the country faces a "cooling market".

The program to transfer officials from one province or region to another began 15 years ago, with each posting being for a three-year period.

TV stations look for ways to ensure no loss of advertising revenue.