China's top legislature on Friday approved the cabinet nomination of Yang Jiechi, former ambassador to the United States, as the country's new foreign minister.

Yang Jiechi (left) and Li Zhaoxing (right)

Yang, 57, replaces Li Zhaoxing, 66, who has served as China's top diplomat since 2003. China's minister-level officials usually retire at the age of 65.

Wan Gang (left) and Xu Guanhua (right)

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) also approved the nomination of Wan Gang, president of Shanghai's Tongji University, as minister of science and technology, replacing Xu Guanhua.

Xu Shaoshi (left) and Sun Wensheng (right)

Xu Shaoshi replaces Sun Wensheng as minister of land and resources.

Chen Lei (left) and Wang Shucheng (right) 

Chen Lei is appointed as minister of water resources, replacing Wang Shucheng.

(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2007)