Xi ranks 3rd on Forbes’ powerful people list

Chinese president Xi Jinping was ranked as the third most powerful person in the world for a second time in Forbes magazine's annual ranking of the World's 72 Most Powerful People.

A panel of the magazine's editors came up with the list based on factors including financial resources, scope and use of power, and the number of people they impact.

Xi followed Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Barack Obama, whom the magazine ranked first and second, respectively.

Experts believe Xi's high ranking on the list reflects the expanding influence of China over the Western world.

"For a US magazine which evaluates the world's power players according to Western values, Xi's high ranking reflects Xi's prestige. China's rapid development also makes Xi's listing inevitable," Cai Zhiqiang, a professor of Party building with the Party School of the CPC Central Committee, told the Global Times.

Considered the most powerful Chinese leader since Mao Zedong, the Forbes' report said, Xi is the country's leader, the head of its Communist Party, and its military since taking office two years ago.

China is the world's largest economy, valued at $17.6 trillion, according to the Forbes' report.

It also said that Xi is currently leading an unprecedented anti-corruption campaign in China, as well as reforms in Chinese market economy and judicial system.

Cai said that China has reached a critical stage in its development, facing challenges of unsolved problems accumulated over the past 30 years of China's reform and opening-up policies. What Xi is doing is of great importance, he added.

Extending his footprints around the world, Xi met with leaders of the US, South Korea, India and Russia, among others. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang joins Xi on the list in 13th spot. Business leaders such as Tencent's Pony Ma and Alibaba's Jack Ma ranked 43rd and 50th, respectively.

Forbes launched its list in 2009. It provides one slot for every 100 million people.