China Mourns Li Keqiang as a ‘Loyal Communist Fighter’ Who Led Reforms

China called the departed former Premier Li Keqiang a “time-tested loyal Communist fighter” and an “outstanding leader” for the Party and the country.

Li, 68, died of a heart attack Friday in Shanghai, just seven months after stepping down as premier, the nation’s No. 2 official.

As vice premier since 2008, he was in charge of the executive work of the State Council, the country’s cabinet. His responsibilities included development and reform, finance, land and resources, environmental protection, construction and health.