Former Chinese vice-premier Liu Yandong dies at 80
Thestandard · 4 SOURCESabout 6 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Former Chinese vice-premier Liu Yandong died of illness in Beijing on Wednesday at the age of 80. She was a former member of the Politburo and served as vice-premier from 2013 to 2018, with state media and officials highlighting her work in united front affairs, education, science and technology, healthcare, and women and children’s issues.
Key Points
- Xinhua reported that Liu Yandong died in Beijing on Wednesday; she was born in November 1945 and was 80 at the time of her death.
- Liu served as China’s vice-premier from 2013 to 2018 and was the fourth woman to hold that office.
- She was also a full member of the Politburo, and was widely regarded as China’s most prominent female official for much of her tenure.
- Xinhua’s obituary described her as an outstanding leader in united front work, education, science and technology, healthcare, and women and children’s affairs.
- Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said Liu had served on the HKSAR Preparatory Committee and as deputy leader of the central coordination group for Hong Kong and Macau affairs.
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong readers, the immediate significance lies in the official tributes stressing Liu Yandong’s long involvement in Hong Kong affairs and her repeated visits to the city. John Lee said she had long cared for Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity and had contributed to development in education, the economy and sports, indicating why her death drew condolences from both Hong Kong and Macau leaders.