Chinese Premier Li Keqiang Confirms He Will Step Down Next March

The No. 2 in the hierarchy of China's ruling Communist Party, Li Keqiang has been premier since 2013, and is constitutionally limited to two terms.

China's Premier Li Keqiang confirmed on Friday plans to step down after his current term expires next March.

The No. 2 in the hierarchy of China's ruling Communist Party, Li has been premier since 2013, and is constitutionally limited to two terms.

"This is the last year I will be premier," Li told a news conference.

President Xi Jinping is expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term as party chief at a party meeting this autumn to elect leaders for the next five years.