China's Jiang pens book on state visits

BEIJING, July 30 (Reuters) Former Chinese President Jiang Zemin has released a book intending to highlight his diplomatic prowess, at a time when he has been seeking to increase his political profile.

''For a Better World: Jiang Zemin's Overseas Visits'' chronicles 12 years of travels, starting with a three-day trip to North Korea in 1990, the official Xinhua news agency said today.

The 654-page volume, not yet widely available in bookstores, also details Jiang's attendance at the ceremonies marking the return of Hong Kong and Macau to China, Xinhua said.

Hundreds of diplomats and officials today attended a book launch in Beijing, Xinhua said. It did not mention whether Jiang, 79, was present. He resides in Shanghai.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement on its Web site www.fmprc.gov.cn) that the book demonstrated Jiang's contributions towards safeguarding China's ''independent and peaceful'' foreign policy. Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing penned its preface.

Political sources told Reuters earlier this month that Jiang had been quietly emerging from retirement in an apparent attempt to influence leadership changes due at the Communist Party's 17th congress next year.

Sources say he may also be worried that the current leadership will rewrite his legacy, placing the blame for social and environmental strains that are now coming to light as a result of the country's economic growth on him.

Jiang served as General Secretary of the party for 13 years. He was replaced in that capacity by Hu Jintao in 2002.

He handed Hu the presidency in 2003 and the reins of the military in 2004.

REUTERS PKS RK1630