Key facts
- Former Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji died at age 97.
- He served as premier from 1998 to 2003.
- Zhu Rongji was instrumental in China's accession to the World Trade Organization.
- He was known for his candid speeches and efforts to combat corruption.
- One report stated his age at death was 98.
Zhu Rongji, a significant figure in China's economic reforms and its entry into the World Trade Organization, has died at the age of 97. Serving as premier from 1998 to 2003, Zhu was known for his direct communication style, often delivering candid speeches that included sharp criticisms of corruption and economic challenges.
His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize China's financial system and integrate the country into the global economy through WTO accession. While most reports confirm his age at death as 97, one report stated he was 98 and died after unsuccessful medical treatment.