Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, one of the key architects of China's economic transformation, has died in Beijing at the age of 97. He died on Wednesday after an illness, according to Chinese state media.
Zhu served as China's premier from 1998 to 2003 under former President Jiang Zemin. During his time in government, he pushed through major economic reforms that helped move China towards a more market-oriented economy.
One of his most significant achievements was helping negotiate China's entry into the World Trade Organization in 2001. The move opened the country further to international trade and investment and played an important role in China's emergence as a global economic powerhouse.
Zhu also led major reforms of state-owned enterprises and the country's tax and financial systems. While some of the changes caused widespread job losses, they helped restructure China's economy and increase its competitiveness.
Before becoming premier, Zhu served as mayor of Shanghai and later as vice premier, gaining a reputation as a tough and pragmatic economic policymaker.
He was also known for his outspoken personality and strong stance against corruption. His leadership helped China navigate the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis while continuing with its economic reforms.
Zhu's death marks the passing of one of the most influential Chinese leaders of the reform era, whose policies helped lay the foundation for China's deeper integration into the global economy.
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