Editor's Note: Friday is International Women's Day. In China, women are called half the sky, with their increasing significance and influence in family and society. To mark this day, these pictures show the living and working conditions of Chinese women from all walks of life.

Women deputies from different ethnic groups pose for a photo in front of the Great Hall of the People during the annual session of the National People's Congress, in Beijing, March 5, 2013. A total of 699 women, 23 percent of the NPC deputies, are taking part in this year's conference. [Photo/Asianewsphoto]