Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji passes away from illness
BEIJING: Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji, whose market reforms helped drive the country’s extraordinary economic rise, died from illness on Wednesday at the age of 97, state media reported.
Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji, renowned for his market reforms that propelled the country's economic growth, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 97 due to illness, according to state media reports. China's top political bodies jointly issued an obituary, which confirmed that the former premier had succumbed to his ailment in Beijing late Wednesday morning after medical treatments proved futile.
Zhu assumed the role of premier in 1998, and rapidly gained a reputation as a staunch advocate of free market principles. Among his most celebrated reforms were a comprehensive program aimed at privatizing unprofitable state-owned enterprises, the privatization of urban housing, and the promotion of homeownership. The Xinhua news agency quoted his obituary as describing Zhu as an outstanding member of the Communist Party of China and a long-tested, loyal communist fighter.
The obituary further stated that Zhu's life was a testament to revolution, struggle, and glory, a life wholly dedicated to serving the people and the communist cause. His passing is mourned as a significant loss for both the Party and the nation.
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