Flags lowered nationwide for funeral of China’s ex-premier Zhu Rongji
Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji was mourned on Tuesday with lowered flags and social media commemorations, ahead of a funeral for the reforming trailblazer who died last week at 97. Known for his decisive restructuring of the Chinese economy during a five-year premiership starting in 1998, Zhu has been praised since his Wednesday passing by […]
Flags across China were lowered in mourning for the death of former Premier Zhu Rongji on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The nation paid tribute to the reforming trailblazer who passed away at the age of 97. Zhu was renowned for his pivotal role in restructuring the Chinese economy during his five-year term as premier, beginning in 1998.
State news agency Xinhua hailed Zhu as "an outstanding proletarian revolutionist (and) statesman" following his death. Flags were hung at half mast at government buildings in Beijing and on Tiananmen Square. On social media, Weibo users expressed their gratitude and remembered Zhu's contributions to the country. Zhu's remains will be cremated in Beijing on Tuesday, followed by a farewell gathering with senior Communist Party leaders, according to standard protocol.
Born in 1928, Zhu held various party positions, including mayor of Shanghai and national vice premier before becoming premier. His tenure coincided with Jiang Zemin's presidency, and Zhu was remembered for his strong anti-corruption efforts, restructuring of inefficient state-owned enterprises, and integration of China into the global economy.
When asked about his desired legacy, Zhu expressed his hope that people would remember him as an honest official, free from corruption.
Written by urgent.news from Hong Kong Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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