State media mentions China's VP without explaining his absence.

Xi was mentioned in official media for the first time since his last appearance on Sept. 1; report failed to explain the extended absence that has sparked the rumors.

Lt. Gen. William Caldwell and Maj. Gen. Gary Patton are taking issue with congressional testimony in July.

A string of long-doubtful observers have become increasingly convinced that economic change is afoot, akin to China's first flirtations with market reforms 30 years ago.

What happens if Xi Jinping is unable to assume the mantle of power?

As Xi Jinping's absence carried into an 11th day Wednesday, party officials were saying nothing.

Pakistan's Shiite minority is feeling under siege as Sunni militants who view them as heretics step up a campaign of sectarian attacks.

The Chinese president warned growth could slow further, prompting expectations of possible new stimulus spending.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura said Japan will buy the three uninhabited islands in the East China Sea from a Japanese family it recognizes as the owner.

Chinese micro-bloggers have speculated to why vice president Xi Jinping has gone unseen for a week.