Former Premier Li Keqiang: A Look at China’s Top Economic Official

A Notable Leader in China

Li Keqiang, China’s former premier and the country’s top economic official for a decade, passed away on Friday at the age of 68 due to a heart attack in Shanghai. His death was reported by state media CCTV. Li played a significant role in shaping China’s economic policies during his time in office.

An Advocate for Private Businesses

During his tenure as China’s premier, Li Keqiang was an advocate for private businesses and policies that would open up China to global business. He believed in the importance of embracing market-oriented reforms and encouraging entrepreneurship to drive economic growth.

Sidelined by Xi Jinping

However, Li’s philosophy clashed with the growing power and influence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, who favored state ownership and stricter regulations. As Xi tightened control over the economy and society, Li found himself with diminished authority. He was often seen as a representative of the old guard and was sidelined by Xi’s sweeping changes to economic guidelines.

Closer Ties to Hu Jintao

Li Keqiang initially seemed poised to succeed President Hu Jintao as China’s paramount leader. He had close ties to Hu and was considered an ally of the former president. However, the leadership landscape changed, and Xi Jinping emerged as the chosen successor. This shift in power led to Li’s diminished role in the Chinese government.

Rise through the Ranks

Li’s journey to becoming the premier of China included various positions within the Chinese Communist Party. He worked closely with Hu Jintao in the organization’s Youth League and demonstrated his political acumen. He served as the governor of Henan and Liaoning provinces before reaching the role of vice premier in 2008. In 2013, he became China’s premier.

Source: Xi Jinping’s onetime political rival, former Chinese premier Li Keqiang, is dead at 68