Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, architect of economic rise, dies at 97

Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji, a pivotal figure in the nation's economic transformation, has died at the age of 97. State news agency Xinhua reported his death in Beijing on Wednesday, attributing it to illness.

Zhu served as premier from 1998 to 2003, a period marked by sweeping economic reforms that propelled China's rapid ascent. He relentlessly pushed state-owned enterprises toward greater efficiency and profitability, often clashing with conservative factions within the Communist Party and company managers. While these reforms led to millions of job losses, they were instrumental in accelerating China's economic growth and integrating it into the global marketplace.

A cornerstone of Zhu's premiership was China's accession to the World Trade Organization in December 2001. This landmark achievement opened the country further to international trade, significantly contributing to its emergence as the world's largest exporter.

Known for his demanding leadership style and sharp wit, Zhu largely withdrew from public life after leaving office. He remained a respected figure among international leaders, with former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl contributing to a 2015 book about him.