Chinese economist-statesman, architect of reform and opening
Zhu Rongji has died in Beijing at 98. Xinhua confirms his death after medical treatment failed. He chaired China’s economy as premier from 1998 to 2003, steering reforms that liberalized markets, pushed state firms toward efficiency, and helped secure WTO membership. His tenure coincided with rapid growth and rising inequality, and his legacy is seen differently inside and outside China.
Authorities are battling shadow networks in China that sell access to groups claiming to leak details on officials under scrutiny. Buyers pay up to 399 yuan for cryptic tips, with operators constantly moving between chat rooms to dodge surveillance.