Former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has died at the age of 68 after suffering a sudden heart attack in Shanghai. Li, who served as China's premier for a decade until March this year, was known for his economic knowledge and calm counsel. He played a crucial role in navigating the country through challenging times, including the Covid-19 pandemic, trade tensions with the United States, and rising government debt.

Li's death comes at a critical juncture for China, with economic growth at a crossroads and geopolitical tensions on the rise. His passing raises questions about stability and potential political changes in the country. The Chinese Communist Party has already taken measures to ensure stability, including cracking down on VPN use to limit access to uncontrolled parts of the internet.

Li was regarded as a reform-minded leader who represented a different approach to China's relations with the world. He emphasized the importance of China's common interests with the United States and advocated for wider openness. His pragmatic approach and focus on economic issues made him a respected figure both inside and outside of China.

Li's death is a loss for China, as he leaves behind a legacy of economic leadership and a caring touch. His warm regard for the people, exemplified by his visit to medical workers in Wuhan during the early days of the Covid-19 outbreak, earned him the nickname "people's premier." The nation mourns the loss of a dedicated leader who guided China through difficult times and made a significant impact on its economy and the lives of its people.