Zhu Rongji dies after illness
Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji has died in Beijing after an illness, according to state media. He was 97.
Zhu served as China’s premier from 1998 to 2003 and was widely seen as a force behind major economic change. He pushed reforms of state-owned enterprises, clashed with party conservatives, and helped steer China into the World Trade Organization.
His policies were linked to layoffs and painful restructuring, but they also helped strengthen China’s economy and accelerate its rise as a global export power.
Key Events
- Xinhua reported that Zhu Rongji died of illness in Beijing.
- Zhu was 97 at the time of his death.
- He served as China’s premier from 1998 to 2003.
- He pushed sweeping reforms of state-owned enterprises and challenged party conservatives.
- He helped lead China into the World Trade Organization.
- His reforms supported rapid economic growth and China’s rise as a major exporter.