In a somber announcement, state media reported on Friday that China’s former Premier, Li Keqiang, passed away at the age of 68 due to a sudden heart attack. The news was broadcasted by state-run CCTV, stating that Li experienced the heart attack while resting in Shanghai, and despite extensive efforts to revive him, he succumbed to the cardiac event at just past midnight on October 27.
Li Keqiang, an accomplished economist known for his proficiency in English, held the position of Premier under President Xi Jinping’s administration from 2013 until his retirement in March of this year. He headed China’s cabinet, focusing on pivotal economic policies during his tenure.
Initially considered a potential successor to then-Communist Party leader Hu Jintao in 2013, Li ultimately missed out on the position, which was bestowed upon Xi Jinping. During his time in office, Li was dedicated to enhancing conditions for entrepreneurs, aiming to bolster job creation and economic prosperity.
However, under President Xi’s leadership, the party opted for a more pronounced role for state-run enterprises, exerting greater control over key sectors including technology.
One of Li’s final significant actions was overseeing China’s COVID-19 policy. In November 2022, he led a pivotal Cabinet meeting that heralded the relaxation of the nation’s stringent control measures. This included the resumption of most international travel after a three-year hiatus. These measures, implemented in response to the pandemic, had led to a 2.6% contraction in the Chinese economy in the second quarter of 2022.
The sudden passing of former Premier Li Keqiang has left the nation in mourning, as China reflects on his contributions to the country’s economic landscape and the profound impact he had during his tenure.
