Briefly

HEBEI

Ex-bank chief pleads guilty to taking bribes

Hu Huaibang, ex-chairman of the China Development Bank, pleaded guilty on Thursday to taking bribes during a trial at the Chengde Intermediate People's Court in Hebei province. Prosecutors accused Hu of taking advantage of his various positions－including in his post as chairman of the Bank of Communications－as well as convenient conditions brought on by his power and status to seek benefits for companies and individuals in obtaining and increasing lines of bank credit, establishing automobile financing companies and job promotions between 2009 and 2019. The value of his crimes amounts to more than 85 million yuan ($12 million). Hu pleaded guilty and expressed remorse. His sentencing will be announced at a later date.

TAIWAN

Island's former leader Lee Teng-hui dies

Former Taiwan leader Lee Teng-hui died of illness on Thursday at the age of 97, the Taipei Veterans General Hospital said. The hospital said Lee died on Thursday evening after suffering from infections, cardiac problems and organ failure since being hospitalized in February.

China Daily - Xinhua