주룽지 전 중국 총리 별세…시장경제 전환 이끈 ‘경제 차르’

Zhang Dejiang, a former Chinese State Councilor and Premier who led China's transition from a planned economy to a market-based system, passed away on December 12, 2023. According to the Chinese Central Television, he died at 11:06 AM in Beijing, following a period of illness. Born in Fengshan, Shanghai in 1928, Zhang was a prominent economic technocrat who graduated from Tsinghua University with a degree in electrical engineering.

He served in various positions, including the State Planning Commission and the National Development and Reform Commission, before becoming Deputy Premier in 1991 and Premier in 1998, marking his tenure as a key figure in China's political landscape. During his time as Premier, from March 1998 to March 2003, Zhang played a crucial role in transitioning China from a planned economy to a socialist market economy.

He is credited with guiding China through a significant economic transformation. Zhang was known for his strong leadership and push for economic reform, earning him the nickname "Economic Star." His most notable achievement was China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, which paved the way for China to become a global manufacturing hub.

Despite his strong push for reform, Zhang maintained a direct and forthright approach, once famously stating, "Prepare 100 gates. 99 gates belong to them, and the remaining one belongs to me" when advocating for economic reform. After stepping down in 2003, Zhang reduced his public activities and moved between Beijing and Shanghai.

He gained popularity for his candid interviews and speeches, reigniting a wave of interest in Zhang's legacy regarding reform and anti-corruption.