Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji Dies at 97
Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji has died. Chinese state media reported his death.
Reports differ on his age. The Washington Post and New York Times said he was 97.
ABC News cited Chinese state media. It said he died of illness at 98.
Zhu served as vice premier then premier of China. He pushed reforms that moved China toward a market economy.
His reforms also revitalized China's state-directed economy. Zhu helped bring China into the World Trade Organization.
He helped transform China into the world's leading manufacturing power. Zhu was also known for criticizing government mistakes and corruption. He accepted blame when the government fell short.
Klear Note — The World Trade Organization sets shared rules for trade between countries.
Key Terms 2
- World Trade Organization A group of countries that sets rules for global trade.
- premier A top government leader, similar to a prime minister.