Zhu Rongji mourned for steadfast support to Hong Kong
Hkgov · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said he was profoundly saddened by the death of former premier Zhu Rongji and offered condolences to Zhu’s family on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Lee said Zhu had always cared deeply about Hong Kong’s development, visited the city several times in different official capacities, and maintained support for its long-term prosperity and stability. Separate accounts of Zhu’s legacy in Hong Kong highlighted his four visits in 1990, 1992, 1997 and 2002, his support during the Asian financial crisis, and his role in promoting closer economic cooperation with the mainland. Political and financial figures in Hong Kong also paid tribute, recalling his strategic vision and personal support for the city
Key Points
- John Lee said Zhu Rongji consistently cared about Hong Kong, engaged people from different sectors, and supported the city’s economic and social development over many years
- Lee said Zhu firmly upheld “one country, two systems”, “Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong”, and a high degree of autonomy
- During his premiership, Zhu backed Hong Kong in staying united through the Asian financial crisis and in safeguarding its status as an international financial centre.
- The Standard said Zhu visited Hong Kong four times, in 1990, 1992, 1997 and 2002, and promoted cooperation between Shanghai and the HKSAR
- Zhu was also remembered as a driving force behind the Closer Economic Partnership Agreement, which expanded mainland market access for Hong Kong businesses
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong readers, the tributes revisit a period when Beijing’s top leadership was seen as directly invested in the city’s financial stability and external economic role. They also connect Zhu’s legacy to enduring pillars of Hong Kong’s identity: its international financial centre status, mainland market access, and the policy framework cited by the current administration.