Zhu Rongji, who helped turn China into a trading giant, dies at 97
Zhu brought China into the WTO and championed reforms that fuelled growth.
Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, who played a pivotal role in transforming China into a global trading powerhouse, has passed away at the age of 97. Zhu Rongji led the nation's second-highest office from 1998 to 2003, and was instrumental in China's entry into the World Trade Organization. His leadership ushered in a period of rapid economic growth and foreign investment, with Chinese factories opening up to international markets.
Zhu Rongji was hailed as one of the most significant economic reformers who shifted local tax powers to the central government, closed or privatized struggling state-owned enterprises, and advocated for homeownership. He was known for his tough and pragmatic approach, often speaking his mind and facing criticism for the reforms that led to 30 million job losses and increasing inequality.
Zhu Rongji was born in Hunan province in 1928 and initially joined the Communist Party in 1949. He was purged twice before being reinstated by Mao Zedong's death and rose to the position of Vice-Premier in charge of China's economy, eventually becoming Premier seven years later. Zhu Rongji's life was described as one of revolution, struggle and brilliance in state media.
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