China censors public mourning as it holds former premier's funeral
While hailing Zhu’s legacy, authorities are wary that the nostalgia could lead to criticisms of Xi’s rule.
Flags at Chinese government buildings are at half-mast as the nation mourns the passing of former Premier Zhu Rongji. Zhu, who died at 97, was cremated in a low-key funeral in Beijing attended by top leaders, including President Xi Jinping. While praised as a loyal Communist and one of China's most important economic reformers, the state has taken steps to control public mourning, fearing it could lead to criticism of the current government.
No footage of the funeral has been released. Zhu's era of reform, which led China through rapid economic growth and global trade participation, is remembered nostalgically by many, but the current leadership, under Xi, is focused on a different path emphasizing technological autonomy and strategic industries.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
