:Li Keqiang

Li Keqiang was born on 3 July 1955 in Dingyuan County of Hefei, Anhui province.{{cite web |date= |title=Li Keqiang 李克强 |url=https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20thpartycongress_li_keqiang.pdf |access-date=28 October 2023 |publisher=Brookings Institution |archive-date=31 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531033216/https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20thpartycongress_li_keqiang.pdf |url-status=live }} His father was a local official in Anhui. Li graduated from Hefei No. 8 Senior High School in 1974, during the Cultural Revolution, and was sent for rural labour in an agriculture commune in Fengyang County, Anhui. There, he joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1976 and became the party head of the local production team. He was awarded the honor of Outstanding Individual in the Study of Mao Zedong Thought during this time.{{cite web |url = http://www.dwnews.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2008_11_28_10_59_18_787.html |script-title = zh:《多维月刊》：李克强出身非平民，成长靠恩师（2） |language=zh |website = Dwnews.com |date=28 November 2008 |access-date=18 March 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081201084924/http://www.dwnews.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2008_11_28_10_59_18_787.html |archive-date=1 December 2008}}

Li refused his father's offer of grooming him for the local county's party leadership and entered Peking University Law School in 1978, where he became the president of the university's student council.{{cite news |date=7 November 2012 |title=Profile: Chinese First Vice Prime Minister Li Keqiang |newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |url=http://www.rferl.org/content/china-profile-li-keqiang/24764285.html |url-status=live |access-date=26 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101201301/http://www.rferl.org/content/china-profile-li-keqiang/24764285.html |archive-date=1 November 2013}} He studied under Professor Gong Xiangrui, a well-known British-educated expert on Western political systems. Together with his classmates, he translated important legal works from English to Chinese, including Lord Denning's book The Due Process of Law. He received a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1982.

In 1982, Li became the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) Committee Secretary at Peking University.{{cite book | author = Xiaobing Li | year = 2015 | title = Modern China | publisher = ABC-CLIO, Santa Barbara, California.|isbn=978-1610696258|page=104}} He passed of a chance to study in the United States to stay as the Committee Secretary.{{Cite news |last=Ma |first=Josephine |date=23 October 2007 |title=Li Keqiang: Scholar who passed up foreign study for party |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/612619/li-keqiang-scholar-who-passed-foreign-study-party |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He entered the top leadership of the national CYLC in 1983 as an alternate member of CYLC Central Committee's Secretariat, and worked closely with future Party General Secretary Hu Jintao, who also rose through the ranks of the CYLC. He was appointed as a secretary of the CYLC Secretariat in 1985.

In 1988, he returned to Peking University for graduate studies. He studied economics under prominent economist Li Yining, who was his doctoral advisor.{{cite web |script-title=zh:总理恩师厉以宁 |trans-title=Li Yining: teacher of the premier |url=http://business.sohu.com/s2013/jrzj74/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221012303/http://business.sohu.com/s2013/jrzj74/ |archive-date=21 February 2015 |access-date=20 February 2015 |publisher=Sohu |language=zh-cn}} He received a Master of Economics and a Doctor of Philosophy in Economics from Peking University in 1995.{{Cite web |title=李克强同志简历_人物资料_中国政府网 |url=http://www.gov.cn/guoqing/2018-03/18/content_5275344.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20221027212422/http://www.gov.cn/guoqing/2018-03/18/content_5275344.htm |archive-date=27 October 2022 |access-date=27 October 2022 |website=State Council of the People's Republic of China}} At the invitation of Li Yining, Li Keqiang's doctoral dissertation review committee was composed of well-known Chinese economists and researchers. Because of the high academic rigor of the committee, Li Keqiang postponed the defense of his dissertation by half a year.{{Cite web |last=Qu |first=Shanshan |date=11 April 2013 |title=厉以宁:李克强的博士论文"经得起各种检验"-搜狐财经 |url=https://business.sohu.com/20130411/n372366492.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20221027213237/https://business.sohu.com/20130411/n372366492.shtml |archive-date=27 October 2022 |access-date=27 October 2022 |website=business.sohu.com}} Described as being able to "withstand any kind of inspection" by his doctoral advisor, Li Keqiang's doctoral dissertation, "On the ternary structure of Chinese economy", published in 1991, was awarded the Sun Yefang Prize, China's highest prize in economics, in 1996.{{Cite web |last=Ji |first=Xiang |date=16 March 2013 |title=李克强与妻女常用英语交流 其博士论文经得起考验 – 中新网 |url=https://www.chinanews.com.cn/gn/2013/03-16/4649086.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20221027215752/https://www.chinanews.com.cn/gn/2013/03-16/4649086.shtml |archive-date=27 October 2022 |access-date=27 October 2022 |website=www.chinanews.com.cn}}{{Cite web |last=李 |first=克强 |date=1991 |title=论我国经济的三元结构 |url=http://big5.www.gov.cn/gate/big5/www.gov.cn/premier/2016-04/07/5062083/files/898f72cc9f5847b1876e814ca057d821.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027205752/http://big5.www.gov.cn/gate/big5/www.gov.cn/premier/2016-04/07/5062083/files/898f72cc9f5847b1876e814ca057d821.pdf |archive-date=27 October 2022 |access-date=27 October 2022 |website=State Council of the People's Republic of China}}{{Cite web |last=Chen |first=Fashan |date=24 December 2012 |title=李克强曾获孙冶方经济学论文奖 |url=http://economy.caixin.com/2012-12-24/100475915.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150419032600/http://economy.caixin.com/2012-12-24/100475915.html |archive-date=19 April 2015 |access-date=27 October 2022 |website=economy.caixin.com}}

Li became the CYLC's first secretary in 1993 and served in that role until 1998. In 1993, Li proposed the CYLC's Youth Volunteers Operation, which recruits and channels volunteers intro educational, social, and environmental projects.{{Cite book |last=Doyon |first=Jérôme |title=Rejuvenating Communism: Youth Organizations and Elite Renewal in Post-Mao China |publisher=University of Michigan Press |year=2023 |isbn=978-0-472-90294-1 |pages= |doi=10.3998/mpub.12291596 |doi-access=free}}{{Rp|page=130}} It is regarded as an important achievement of his tenure as CYLC first secretary.{{Rp|page=130}} Li was a representative member of the first generation to have risen from the CYLC leadership.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} In 1997, he became a full member of the CCP Central Committee.

Li became the youngest Chinese provincial governor in June 1998 when he was appointed governor of Henan at the age of 43. He also became Henan's Deputy Party Secretary. According to provincial officials working with him at the time, Li refused to participate in any banquets or large fancy events not related to government activities.{{cite web |url = http://www3.chinesenewsnet.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2007_6_10_0_11_42_172.html |title = Duowei: Li Keqiang helps Henan fight off the poverty |language = zh |work = Chinese Newsnet |date = 10 June 2007 |access-date = 18 March 2013 |archive-url = https://archive.today/20130102053722/http://www3.chinesenewsnet.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2007_6_10_0_11_42_172.html |archive-date = 2 January 2013 |url-status = dead }} During his time as governor, a public sense of his "bad luck" grew due to the occurrence of three major fires in the province.{{Cite news |title=Power Players: Li Keqiang |work=The Diplomat |url=https://apac2020.thediplomat.com/power-players/li-keqiang/ |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20100826124714/http://apac2020.the-diplomat.com/power-players/li-keqiang/ |archive-date=26 August 2010 |url-status=live }}

Li was known to be outspoken and led economic development in Henan, transforming the poor inland region into an attractive area for investment.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} He trekked through all regions of the province trying to search for a comprehensive solution to its growing problems.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} In December 2002, the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party decided to appoint Li Keqiang to replace Chen Kuiyuan as the Secretary of the Henan Provincial Party Committee,{{cite web | title= 中共中央决定：李克强同志任河南省委书记 | website=中国网--网上中国 | url=http://lianghui.china.com.cn/chinese/zhengyao/254510.htm | language=zh | access-date=25 July 2024}} and left his post as governor in 2003. Henan jumped in national GDP rankings from 28th in the early 1990s to 18th in 2004, when Li left Henan. However, his government was relatively ineffective at curbing the HIV/AIDS epidemic that was affecting the rural areas of the province.{{Cite news |last=Watts |first=Jonathan |date=25 October 2003 |title=Hidden from the world, a village dies of Aids while China refuses to face a growing crisis |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/oct/25/aids.china |access-date=28 October 2023 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=7 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171207012636/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2003/oct/25/aids.china |url-status=live }}

Li was transferred to work as the Party secretary of Liaoning in December 2004. There he was known for the "Five Points and One Line" project, where he linked Dalian, Dandong, and a series of other ports into a comprehensive network to improve trade flow.{{Cite web |title=Coastal areas to be focus of economic growth |url=https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/m/liaoning/2007-03/07/content_9422989.htm |access-date=31 October 2023 |website=China Daily |archive-date=21 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721011459/http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/m/liaoning/2007-03/07/content_9422989.htm |url-status=live }} In January 2005, Li set a goal of tackling the slums in the province within three years, a project which he coordinated with the central government. The campaign led to the removal of more than 12 million square metres of slums in the province by 2007 and gained him popular support.{{Cite news |last=Ting |first=Shi |date=6 February 2007 |title=Hu protege shows he's got what it takes |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/580938/hu-protege-shows-hes-got-what-it-takes |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} During his leadership in Liaoning, Li designed the "Li Keqiang index", an unconventional economic indicator that aimed to bypass the often unreliable official provincial GDP numbers, which were often artificially inflated, and thus serve as a better indicator of economic health. Instead of gathering data on total economic output alone, Li used railway cargo volume, electricity consumption, and total loans disbursed by banks to keep tabs on the economy.{{Cite news |date=9 March 2023 |title=How to measure China's true economic growth |newspaper=The Economist |url=https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2023/03/09/how-to-measure-chinas-true-economic-growth |access-date=15 March 2023 |issn=0013-0613 |archive-date=15 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230315015013/https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2023/03/09/how-to-measure-chinas-true-economic-growth |url-status=live }}

{{See also|Hu–Wen Administration}}

File:Vice_Premier_of_the_State_Council_of_the_People’s_Republic_of_China_(5347479772).jpg dinner and delivers a speech.]]

Li joined the CCP Politburo Standing Committee after the 17th Party Congress held in October 2007 as its 7th-ranking member. He was succeeded in his Liaoning party secretary post by governor Zhang Wenyue. Given his Youth League experience and his association with then paramount leader Hu Jintao, Li was viewed from early on in Hu's term as a contender to succeed Hu when his term as party leader ended in 2012.{{Cite news |last=Hale |first=Erin |date=1 June 2022 |title=Li Keqiang: China's sidelined premier back in the limelight |work=Al Jazeera |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/6/1/chinas-sidelined-premier-back-in-the-spotlight |access-date=8 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808082815/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/6/1/chinas-sidelined-premier-back-in-the-spotlight |archive-date=8 August 2022}} While Li's political future seemed promising, he was outranked on the Standing Committee by Xi Jinping, who had just left his role as party secretary of Shanghai to join the central leadership ranks in Beijing. This rank order signaled that it would be Xi, not Li, who would eventually succeed Hu as party general secretary and president. In November 2007, Li met with European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, his first meeting with a foreign delegation in his new capacity.{{Cite news |date=29 November 2007 |title=Protege Li steps into spotlight |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/617536/protege-li-steps-spotlight |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

At the 1st Session of the 11th National People's Congress, Li was elected as the first-ranking vice premier, reinforcing the speculation that Li would become premier and was being groomed to succeed Premier Wen Jiabao. Li's portfolio as vice premier included economic development, government budgets, land and resources, the environment, and health.{{cite web |date=15 November 2012 |title=China's new top Party leaders make debut |url=http://www.china.org.cn/china/18th_cpc_congress/2012-11/15/content_27120449.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117235826/http://www.china.org.cn/china/18th_cpc_congress/2012-11/15/content_27120449.htm |archive-date=17 November 2012 |access-date=22 November 2012 |website=China.org.cn}} He also became the head of central commissions overseeing the Three Gorges Dam and the South–North Water Transfer Project, as well as the leader of steering committees in charge of health care reform, food safety, and AIDS-related work.{{Cite news |last=Li |first=Raymond |date=29 November 2012 |title=Li Keqiang wants tax breaks for NGOs specialising in Aids/HIV work |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1093457/li-keqiang-wants-tax-breaks-ngos-specialising-aidshiv-work |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In addition, Li was the principal lieutenant to premier Wen Jiabao in the broad portfolios of climate change, energy, information technology, northeastern China revitalization, and developing the Chinese far west.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} He was also put in charge of restructuring the government.{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Cary |date=22 January 2009 |title=Regional bureaucracies targeted for streamlining in reform plan |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/667798/regional-bureaucracies-targeted-streamlining-reform-plan |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In March 2008, Li gave his first public speech as vice premier, where he said China would macroeconomic controls at a reasonable level.{{Cite news |date=24 March 2008 |title=Beijing has levers and skills to keep economy stable, Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/631001/beijing-has-levers-and-skills-keep-economy-stable-li-keqiang-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} As vice premier, Li was instrumental in pushing through an economic stimulus program in 2008, which was aimed for the economy to rebound from the Sichuan earthquake as well as the Great Recession.{{Cite news |last=Hancock |first=Tom |date=27 October 2023 |title=Li Keqiang: Late China Premier Championed Growth, Small Business |work=Bloomberg News |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-10-27/li-keqiang-late-china-premier-championed-growth-small-business |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027122824/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-10-27/li-keqiang-late-china-premier-championed-growth-small-business |url-status=live }} Li's appeared at the 2010 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he presented China's long-term vision for development in front of world business and political leaders.{{cite news |last=Maidment |first=Paul |date=28 January 2010 |title=China's Li Delivers A Polished Future |work=Forbes |url=https://blogs.forbes.com/davos/2010/01/28/chinas-li-delivers-a-polished-future/ |url-status=live |access-date=3 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722105058/http://blogs.forbes.com/davos/2010/01/28/chinas-li-delivers-a-polished-future/ |archive-date=22 July 2011}} In particular, Li briefed the WEF on China's commitment to sustainable development, green energy, decreasing the income gap and modernizing key strategic industries. While reiterating China's commitment to peaceful development and its focus in increasing domestic demand in the face of external pressures during the global financial crisis, Li also warned against protectionism, saying "opening up can be both bilateral and multilateral... in this sense, one plus one is more often than not bigger than two."{{cite web|last=Li|first=Keqiang|title=Davos Annual Meeting 2010 – Special Address by Li Keqiang|date=28 January 2010 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybzXrKw6rPk|publisher=World Economic Forum|access-date=4 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917022828/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybzXrKw6rPk|archive-date=17 September 2012|url-status=live}}

File:First Minister meets Chinese Vice-Premier (6460172703).jpg, Alex Salmond, December 2011]]

In February 2010, Li gave a speech to ministerial and provincial-level leaders about the importance of changing the economic structure of the country in order to be better poised for future growth. The speech was published with minor omissions in the 1 June issue of Qiushi, the Communist Party's political theory publication. Li said that China had come to a critical historical inflection point where a fundamental shift in the structure of the economy must take place in order for the country to continue its path of growth. Li particularly emphasized the need to boost domestic consumption, and emphasized the importance of continued urbanization.{{cite web |last=Li |first=Keqiang |trans-title=Questions Concerning Changes to China's Economic Structure |script-title=zh:关于调整经济结构促进持续发展的几个问题 |url=http://www.qstheory.cn/zxdk/2010/201011/201005/t20100527_31316.htm |publisher=Qiushi |access-date=1 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100604004342/http://www.qstheory.cn/zxdk/2010/201011/201005/t20100527_31316.htm |archive-date=4 June 2010 |url-status=dead }} Li also emphasized that China should be moving towards a more middle class-oriented society with an "olive"-shaped wealth distribution, with the majority of the country's population and wealth belonging to the middle class.{{Cite news |last=Zhang |first=Ed |date=19 February 2012 |title=Beefing up the middle-class meat in the economic sandwich |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/993118/beefing-middle-class-meat-economic-sandwich |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also reiterated the importance of industrialization, urbanization and agricultural modernization in China in order to improve its competitiveness, food security, energy security, affordable housing, and healthcare.{{cite web|last=Xinhua News Agency|title=China's vice premier urges accelerating industrialization, urbanization|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2010-10/11/c_13550478.htm|publisher=Xinhuanet|access-date=22 October 2010|date=11 October 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101014210404/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2010-10/11/c_13550478.htm|archive-date=14 October 2010}}

In August 2011, Li went on an official visit to Hong Kong, including a trip to the University of Hong Kong. The political sensitivities and heightened security surrounding the event resulted in the Hong Kong 818 incident, an event that caused controversy in the territory.{{cite web |date=25 August 2011 |title=Asia Times Online :: China's Santa Claus shakes up Hong Kong |url=http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/MH25Ad01.html |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110824153749/http://atimes.com/atimes/China/MH25Ad01.html |archive-date=24 August 2011 |access-date=30 August 2011 |work=Asia Times}}{{cite web |date=1 November 2011 |title=Asia Times Online :: Battle for Hong Kong University's soul |url=http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/MK01Ad01.html |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111031161320/http://atimes.com/atimes/China/MK01Ad01.html |archive-date=31 October 2011 |access-date=10 November 2011 |work=Asia Times}} In late 2011, at the national environmental protection working conference, Li called on China to have a "blue sky, clear water and uncontaminated soil".{{Cite news |last=Li |first=Jing |date=21 April 2013 |title=Environmental experts say China's new leadership has to tackle pollution |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1219475/environmental-experts-say-chinas-new-leadership-has-tackle-pollution |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2011, while visiting Hebei, Li said that policies introduced by the government to curb housing prices would be maintained and urged local governments to build affordable homes for low-income residents.{{Cite news |last=Ren |first=Daniel |date=29 November 2011 |title=Vice-premier vows housing curbs will stay |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/986242/vice-premier-vows-housing-curbs-will-stay |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2012, at the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia, Li expressed confidence over China's economy, and said China would continue to stabilize economic growth while curbing inflation.{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Cary |last2=Tsang |first2=Denise |date=3 April 2012 |title=Vice-premier confident over growth |url=https://www.scmp.com/article/997286/vice-premier-confident-over-growth |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In October 2012, Li said the government would replace business tax with a value-added tax for more companies, including those in postal, telecommunications, railways and construction, with the eventual aim to cover all of China.{{Cite news |last=Ruan |first=Victoria |date=23 October 2012 |title=Tax relief for more mainland companies |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1067506/tax-relief-more-mainland-companies |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2012, after it was revealed a hospital rejected a lung cancer patient after finding out he was infected with HIV, Li demanded health authorities to "ensure the rights" of HIV patients to "medical care without any discrimination".{{Cite news |last=Zhuang |first=Pinghui |date=23 November 2012 |title=Vice-Premier weighs in on HIV patients hospital rejection |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1088600/vice-premier-weighs-hiv-patients-hospital-rejection |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

{{Main|Li Keqiang Government}}Li was became the second-ranking member of the PSC after the 18th CCP National Congress held in the November 2012. As he was expected to become premier, this was a shift from previous convention on the PSC set in 1997 whereby the premier ranked third, after the chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, who ranked second. At a panel meeting of the Congress, Li emphasized that China must pursue "four new modernizations", referring to industrialization, information technology application, urbanization, and agricultural modernization.{{Cite news |last=Ruan |first=Victoria |date=19 November 2012 |title=Incoming premier to forge new strategic economic path |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1085632/incoming-premier-forge-new-strategic-economic-path |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2012, shortly after the Party Congress, Li spoke at a seminar organized by the State Council, where he emphasized reform to achieve a moderately prosperous society by 2020.{{Cite news |last=Shi |first=Jiangtao |date=23 November 2012 |title=Next premier Li Keqiang sets out case for reform |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1088690/next-premier-li-keqiang-sets-out-case-reform |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

Li later met with HIV/AIDS activists 12 non-governmental organizations at the Ministry of Health.{{Cite news |last=Li |first=Raymond |date=28 November 2012 |title=Premier-in-waiting Li Keqiang meets Aids activists |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1092519/premier-waiting-li-keqiang-meets-aids-activists |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In December 2012, Li visited Jiangxi, his first inspection trip since becoming the second-ranking PSC member.{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Cary |date=29 December 2012 |title=Li Keqiang follows new down-to-earth working style on tour of Jiangxi |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1114734/li-keqiang-follows-new-down-earth-working-style-tour-jiangxi |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} On 15 March 2013, Li Keqiang was elected by the 1st Session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) as premier, succeeding Wen Jiabao.{{cite news |date=15 March 2013 |title=China confirms Li Keqiang as premier |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-21796641 |url-status=live |access-date=15 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130315212159/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-21796641 |archive-date=15 March 2013}} Of the nearly 3,000 legislators assembled at the Congress, 2,940 voted for him, three against, and six abstained. At the same Congress, Party general secretary Xi Jinping was elected President.{{cite news |date=15 March 2013 |title=Li Keqiang named Chinese premier, government's second most powerful post |work=CNN |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2013/03/14/world/asia/china-new-premier/ |url-status=live |access-date=17 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101090701/http://edition.cnn.com/2013/03/14/world/asia/china-new-premier/ |archive-date=1 November 2013}} In his first press conference as premier, Li emphasized market reforms.{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=18 March 2013 |title=Li Keqiang stresses market reforms at first press conference as premier |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1193255/li-keqiang-stresses-market-reforms-first-press-conference-premier |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

File:12th East Asia Summit (2).jpg and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte]]

File:Sommet éco franco-chinois-2022.jpg

On 16 March, the NPC appointed Zhang Gaoli, Liu Yandong, Wang Yang, and Ma Kai as vice premiers following their respective nominations from Li Keqiang.{{cite news|title=Who's Who in China's New Government Leadership Lineup|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-16/who-s-who-in-china-s-new-government-leadership-lineup.html|work=Bloomberg|access-date=16 March 2013|date=16 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130321040232/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-16/who-s-who-in-china-s-new-government-leadership-lineup.html|archive-date=21 March 2013|url-status=live}} He gave his first major speech 17 March at the conclusion of the NPC, calling for frugality in government, a fairer distribution of income and continued economic reform. Li focused his attention on China to move towards a consumption based economy instead of relying on export led growth.{{cite web|url=http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/102774/8182241.html|date=26 March 2013|title=Premier Li Keqiang focuses on consumption|author=DING QINGFEN|work=China Daily|access-date=1 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131101161350/http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/102774/8182241.html|archive-date=1 November 2013|url-status=live}} Li was ranked 14th of the 2013 Forbes list of the World's Most Powerful People, after taking the office of Chinese premier.{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/profile/li-keqiang/ |title=Li Keqiang |work=Forbes |date=18 April 2012 |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030233713/http://www.forbes.com/profile/li-keqiang/ |archive-date=30 October 2013 |url-status=live }} On 18 March 2018, Li was reappointed premier after receiving 2,964 votes in favour and just two against by the NPC.{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Xin |date=18 March 2018 |title=Li Keqiang endorsed as China's premier, while military commission chiefs consolidate power |work=South China Morning Post |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/2137707/li-keqiang-endorsed-chinas-premier-while-military-commission |access-date=15 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827155325/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/2137707/li-keqiang-endorsed-chinas-premier-while-military-commission |archive-date=27 August 2019}} There has been speculation that Li may have been sidelined by Xi Jinping's consolidation of power,{{Cite news |last=Wei |first=Lingling |date=11 May 2022 |title=China's Forgotten Premier Steps Out of Xi's Shadow as Economic Fixer |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-premier-li-keqiang-xi-jinping-11652277107 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531130648/https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-premier-li-keqiang-xi-jinping-11652277107 |archive-date=31 May 2023 |access-date=8 August 2022 |work=The Wall Street Journal |language=en-US |issn=0099-9660}} with some calling him the "weakest premier" since the CCP took power in 1949.{{Cite news |last=Yu |first=Verna |date=11 March 2023 |title='A defeated person': sidelined by Xi, China's Li Keqiang bows out as premier |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/mar/11/a-defeated-person-sidelined-by-xi-chinas-li-keqiang-bows-out-as-premier |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314180550/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/mar/11/a-defeated-person-sidelined-by-xi-chinas-li-keqiang-bows-out-as-premier |archive-date=14 March 2023 |access-date=15 March 2023 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}File:Li Keqiang, Chinese and foreign press conference.jpg.]]

In March 2013, Li held his first State Council meeting as premier, where he called on officials to implement government directives.{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Cary |date=22 March 2013 |title=Implement reforms with sincerity, Li Keqiang tells cabinet |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1196756/implement-reforms-sincerity-li-keqiang-tells-cabinet |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also announced curbs on off-budget spending to fight corruption.{{Cite news |last=Zhai |first=Keith |date=27 March 2013 |title=Anti-corruption drive targets off-budget spending |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1200632/anti-corruption-drive-targets-budget-spending |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2013, Li said China would continue to increase investment at a "reasonable" pace.{{Cite news |last=Li |first=Sandy |date=18 April 2013 |title=Premier pledges continued steady investment growth |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/global-economy/article/1217060/premier-pledges-continued-steady-investment-growth |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, Li visited Sichuan after the Lushan earthquake, emphasizing the need for quick action.{{Cite news |last=Zhuang |first=Pinghui |date=20 April 2013 |title=Premier Li visits quake-hit areas |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1219267/premier-li-visits-quake-hit-areas |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He later also called on officials to decrease the fatality rate of the H7N9 bird flu.{{Cite news |last=He |first=Huifeng |last2=Ho |first2=Jolie |date=29 April 2013 |title=Reduce H7N9 human fatalities, Premier Li Keqiang tells health officials |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1225525/reduce-h7n9-human-fatalities-premier-li-tells-health-officials |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In June 2013, Li held the first meeting of the "Global CEO Advisory Council" which included the heads of 14 business leaders.{{Cite news |last=Boehler |first=Patrick |date=7 June 2013 |title=Beijing sets up advisory body with multinationals |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1255147/beijing-sets-advisory-body-multinationals |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, Li signaled China's financial system should curb credit expansion.{{Cite news |date=28 June 2013 |title=Short sharp shock |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/1270585/short-sharp-shock |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In July 2013, Li was named the head of the Leading Group for Western Region Development of the State Council, the Leading Group for the Revitalization of Old Industrial Bases in Northeast China of the State Council, and the Leading Group for the National Response to Climate Change and Energy Conservation.{{Cite news |last=Huang |first=Cary |date=15 July 2013 |title=Premier Li Keqiang named head of three more powerful advisory bodies |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1282769/premier-li-keqiang-named-head-three-more-powerful-advisory-bodies |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In August 2013, Li ordered the National Audit Office to audit the debt held by local governments.{{Cite news |date=1 August 2013 |title=Local government debt to be exposed by Li's survey |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1293438/local-government-debt-be-exposed-lis-survey |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In September 2013, Li attended a meeting of the World Economic Forum in Dalian, where he said China would pursue financial reform including interest rate and exchange rate liberalization, promoting the yuan's convertibility under the capital account, and easing barriers for newer and smaller actors to enter the financial industry.{{Cite news |last=Ruan |first=Victoria |date=12 September 2013 |title=Reforms enter critical stage, says Premier Li Keqiang |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1308561/reforms-enter-critical-stage-premier-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

Li was critical in the opening of the Shanghai Free-Trade Zone, which opened in September 2013, and fought opposition from the China Banking Regulatory Commission and the China Securities Regulatory Commission.{{cite news |date=29 September 2013 |title=Shanghai free-trade zone launched |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24322313 |access-date=30 September 2013 |work=BBC News}}{{Cite news |last=Chen |first=George |date=15 July 2013 |title=Exclusive: Li Keqiang fought strong opposition for Shanghai free-trade zone plan |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1282793/li-fought-strong-opposition-shanghai-free-trade-zone-plan |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} South China Morning Post reported in October 2013 that Li preferred to keep a low-profile to not endanger his reform agenda.{{Cite news |last=Chen |first=George |date=28 October 2013 |title=Li at crossroads in the fight for economic changes |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/1341500/li-crossroads-fight-economic-changes |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2013, Li said China needed an economic growth rate of 7.2 percent to keep employment stable.{{Cite news |last=Kwong |first=Man-ki |date=5 November 2013 |title=China needs 7.2pc economic growth, Premier Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1348151/china-needs-72-cent-economic-growth-premier-li-keqiang-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

At the Third Plenum of the 18th Central Committee held in the fall of 2013, the CCP announced far-reaching economic and social reforms. However, the document outlining the reforms was drafted under the leadership of Xi, Liu Yunshan and Zhang Gaoli, and Li was ostensibly not involved in preparing the document. This departure from convention (Wen was the principal drafter of documents behind the reforms announced at the Third Plenum of 2003) led to speculation that Li was becoming marginalized in the new administration, and that the widely touted "Xi–Li Administration" in fact did not exist, as power was increasingly being centralized under the hands of Xi as the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party.{{Cite news |date=17 November 2013 |script-title=zh: 习刘张起草三中 李克强未参与引争议 |trans-title=Xi Liu Zhang drafted three middle schools Li Keqiang did not participate in the dispute |url=http://china.dwnews.com/news/2013-11-17/59347995.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150123222658/http://china.dwnews.com/news/2013-11-17/59347995.html |archive-date=23 January 2015 |work=Duowei News |language=zh}}File:Xi jinping and Li keqiang.jpgFollowing the Third Plenum of 2013, Xi amassed a series of leadership roles on four new powerful supra-ministerial bodies overseeing "comprehensively deepening reforms", the internet, military reform, and also the National Security Commission. The "deepening reforms" leading group was said to be encroaching on the affairs in the economic realm normally handled by the premier, and was seen as having the effect of reducing Li's institutional power. Li nevertheless appeared in official press releases as Xi's foremost lieutenant, being named Vice Chairman of the National Security Commission,{{cite web |date=24 January 2014 |title=Xi Jinping to lead national security commission |url=http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2014-01/24/content_17257409.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203015626/http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2014-01/24/content_17257409.htm |archive-date=3 February 2014 |access-date=31 January 2014 |publisher=China Daily}} in addition to becoming the deputy leader of leading groups on "deepening reforms", internet security, and the economy and finance.{{Cite web |last=Anthony |first=Augusta |date=1 November 2023 |title=Death of China's former premier offers a way to air frustration with Xi era |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/01/china/china-li-keqiang-death-xi-discontent-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231204080125/https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/01/china/china-li-keqiang-death-xi-discontent-intl-hnk/index.html |archive-date=4 December 2023 |access-date=4 December 2023 |website=CNN |language=en}} After the announcement of comprehensive reforms at the Third Plenum in 2013, Li became a leading figure of the government's reform implementation efforts. The Third Plenum called for market forces to play a "decisive" role in the allocation of resources, ostensibly looking to decrease government regulation on the market.{{Cite web |date=21 July 2014 |script-title=zh:学者称李克强style为专家治国 |trans-title=Scholars say Li Keqiang style is an expert |url=http://china.dwnews.com/news/2014-07-21/59492203.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150123223814/http://china.dwnews.com/news/2014-07-21/59492203.html |archive-date=23 January 2015 |publisher=Duowei News |language=zh}}

In December 2013, he visited Tianjin, where he called on young people to contribute to innovation and entrepreneurialism.{{Cite news |last=Ng |first=Eric |last2=Kwong |first2=Man-ki |date=28 December 2013 |title=Li urges young entrepreneurs to make an impact |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/1391346/li-urges-young-entrepreneurs-make-impact |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In March 2014, at the annual government work report given by the premier to the NPC, Li said fiscal and financial reforms would eventually allow China to cut its dependence on fixed asset investment.{{Cite news |last=Victoria |first=Ruan |date=5 March 2014 |title=China to push ahead with fiscal reforms as it sets economic growth at 7.5pc |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/global-economy/article/1440747/china-push-ahead-fiscal-reforms-it-sets-economic-growth-75pc |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2014, Li visited Chongqing, the first by a state leader to the city since the Party Congress in November 2012 and the downfall of party secretary Bo Xilai.{{Cite news |last=Zhang |first=Hong |date=29 April 2014 |title=Premier Li Keqiang makes high-profile visit to Chongqing |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1499496/premier-li-keqiang-makes-high-profile-visit-chongqing |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In July 2014, Li said that local governments were still ineffective at following the central government's reform directives, and that some governments meddle in affairs they shouldn't be involved in, and some don't pay attention to things they should be doing. Li emphasized that the success of reforms came down to "execution and implementation", and criticized local governments for failing to act in support of reforms. In October 2014, Li held a meeting of the State Council, where he pledged major investment projects.{{Cite news |date=9 October 2014 |title=Premier Li Keqiang pledges major projects, policy tweaks |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/1612437/premier-li-keqiang-pledges-major-projects-policy-tweaks |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In March 2015, Li told the NPC in his annual work report that China would take "painful reforms".{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=16 March 2015 |title='Like taking a knife to one's flesh': Li Keqiang vows to push on with 'painful reforms' |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1738660/taking-knife-ones-flesh-li-keqiang-vows-push-painful-reforms |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He later held a State Council meeting, where he encouraged officials to give explanations to the public on social issues.{{Cite news |last=Zuo |first=Mandy |date=23 March 2015 |title=Be more responsive to public concerns, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang tells ministers |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1744886/be-more-responsive-public-concerns-chinese-premier-li-keqiang-tells |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also proposed Internet Plus and urged telecoms companies to cut prices and increase their speeds and announced investment infrastructure improvements for this goal.{{Cite news |date=2015-05-14 |title=China reveals ambitious broadband plan |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-32736199 |access-date=2025-02-27 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}} In April 2015, he addressed officials and state-owned enterprise executives, where he called on companies to become more competitive.{{Cite news |last=He |first=Huifeng |date=6 April 2015 |title=China needs new trade route to future, Premier Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1757174/china-needs-new-trade-route-future-premier-li-keqiang-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He then visited Jilin,{{Cite news |last=Ruan |first=Victoria |date=13 April 2015 |title=China's premier warns worst-performing provinces to boost economic growth |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/global-economy/article/1765028/chinas-premier-warns-worst-performing-provinces-boost |work=South China Morning Post}} and later visited the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the China Development Bank in April 2015, where he called on banks to support the real economy.{{Cite news |date=19 April 2015 |title=China's Premier Li urges reluctant banks to support real economy |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/1770164/chinas-premier-li-urges-reluctant-banks-support-real-economy |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also visited the Fujian Free-Trade Zone in the same month, where he called for a cut on borrowing costs.{{Cite news |last=Ren |first=Daniel |date=25 April 2015 |title=Chinese premier Li Keqiang to use free-trade zones to cut high bank rates |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/1775838/chinese-premier-use-free-trade-zones-cut-high-bank-rates |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In May 2015, Li initiated the Made in China 2025 strategic plan.[https://gbtimes.com/made-china-2025-plan-unveiled-boost-manufacturing "Made in China 2025" plan unveiled to boost manufacturing] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725113438/https://gbtimes.com/made-china-2025-plan-unveiled-boost-manufacturing|date=July 25, 2018}}. China News Service, May 2015.

In March 2016, Li attended the Boao Forum for Asia, where he said China would stabilize the property market and called on Asian countries to reject trade protectionism.{{Cite news |last=Zuo |first=Mandy |last2=Wu |first2=Wendy |date=24 March 2016 |title=Chinese premier vows to stabilise the property market |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/1929961 |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In July 2016, Li told provincial officials to cut red tape and increase private investment.{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Xin |date=21 July 2016 |title=Throw open the doors to private investors, Chinese premier tells provinces |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/1992456/throw-open-doors-private-investors-chinese-premier-tells |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In October 2016, he visited Macau, where he praised the city as a "treasured lotus land, a beautiful and special place".{{Cite news |last=Fraser |first=Niall |date=10 October 2016 |title=Chinese premier Li Keqiang gives Macau his seal of approval |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/2026819/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-heaps-praise-macau-start-visit |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2017, Li said China must improve intellectual property rights.{{Cite news |date=23 November 2017 |title=‘Inadequate’ intellectual property rights hitting investment, says China’s premier |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/2121191/inadequate-intellectual-property-rights-hitting-investment-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In January 2018, Li held a meeting with economic experts and entrepreneurs, where he called for reform and innovation.{{Cite news |date=24 January 2018 |title=More targeted reform and innovation key to China’s economic renewal, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/2130403/more-targeted-reform-and-innovation-key-chinas-economic-renewal |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In March 2018, Li's government work report said China would continue fighting against financial sector risks.{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=20 March 2018 |title=China will push ahead ‘resolutely’ with financial sector fight, says Li Keqiang |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/economy/article/2138101/china-will-push-ahead-resolutely-financial-sector-fight-says-li |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In July 2018, Li visited the Tibet Autonomous Region, the first trip to the region by a Chinese premier in decades.{{Cite news |last=Ng |first=Teddy |last2=Ho |first2=Matt |date=27 July 2018 |title=Chinese Premier Li Keqiang tells Buddhist leaders to defend ethnic unity on rare trip to Tibet |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/policies-politics/article/2157217/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-tells-buddhist-leaders |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2018, Li told a meeting of the State Council that loans to small and medium enterprises should not be "wilfully withdrawn".{{Cite news |date=10 November 2018 |title=China’s Premier Li Keqiang says loans to small firms should not be ‘wilfully withdrawn’ |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/2172593/chinas-premier-li-keqiang-says-loans-small-firms-should-not-be |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In February 2019, after People’s Bank of China announced loans a record high, Li warned of "new potential risks".{{Cite news |last=Xie |first=Yu |last2=Tang |first2=Frank |date=21 February 2019 |title=China’s Premier Li Keqiang warns central bank of ‘new potential risks’ posed by record loans in January |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/2187085/chinas-premier-li-keqiang-warns-central-bank-new-potential |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2019, Li cut value-added tax, consumption tax and import duties to boost the economy.{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Amanda |date=8 April 2019 |title=China cuts controversial tax on personal items bought overseas in move to boost consumption |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3005262/china-cuts-tax-personal-items-bought-overseas-move-boost |work=South China Morning Post}} In May 2019, Li attended chaired the national conference on employment, where he called on officials to make job creation their top priority.{{Cite news |last=Xie |first=Echo |last2=Zheng |first2=William |date=15 May 2019 |title=China turns attention to jobs as trade war casts shadow over economy, with Li Keqiang demanding jobs for graduates, ex-military and more |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3010224/china-turns-attention-jobs-trade-war-casts-shadow-over-economy |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In September 2019, Li attended a scientific seminar, where he invoked Isaac Newton and called on Chinese scientists to be given "more freedom to explore without fear".{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Amanda |date=4 September 2019 |title=China Premier invokes Isaac Newton in calling for revamp of ‘rigid’ Chinese research to fight US tech war |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3025693/china-premier-invokes-isaac-newton-calling-revamp-rigid |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2019, Li attended a 1+6 Roundtable with the leaders of institutions including the leaders of International Monetary Fund, World Bank and World Trade Organization, where he said China agreed "not to use all-out stimulus".{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=22 November 2019 |title=China will not use ‘all-out stimulus’ to boost slowing economy, Premier Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3038975/china-will-not-use-all-out-stimulus-boost-slowing-economy |work=South China Morning Post}}

In April 2020, Li announced during an executive meeting of the State Council that China would build 46 new integrated pilot zones for cross-border e-commerce, in addition to the already 59 existing ones.{{Cite news |last=Zhang |first=Jane |date=8 April 2020 |title=China to set up 46 new integrated pilot zones for cross-border e-commerce to revive foreign trade |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/policy/article/3078951/china-set-46-new-integrated-pilot-zones-cross-border-e-commerce-revive |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In May 2020, during the annual government work report, Li announced plans to delay loan repayments and interest payments, and increase bank loans.{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Cissy |date=22 May 2020 |title=Coronavirus: China’s pandemic lifeline for small firms draws lukewarm response from business owners |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3085663/coronavirus-chinas-pandemic-lifeline-small-firms-draws |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} During the press conference of the NPC session, Li citing the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said that China still had 600 million people living with less than 1000 yuan ($140) a month, although an article from The Economist said that the methodology NBS used was flawed, stating that the figure took the combined income, which was then equally divided.{{Cite news |date=2023-03-20 |title=China's poverty line is not as stingy as commentators think {{!}} The Economist |url=https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2020/06/18/chinas-poverty-line-is-not-as-stingy-as-commentators-think |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230320140957/https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2020/06/18/chinas-poverty-line-is-not-as-stingy-as-commentators-think |archive-date=March 20, 2023 |access-date=2023-12-08 |newspaper=The Economist}}

In June 2020, Li visited street vendors in Yantai, Shandong, where he described the vendor economy as the "fire" or China's economy.{{Cite news |last=Zhang |first=Jane |date=4 June 2020 |title=Chinese tech firms pledge more help for street stalls, small vendors after premier’s comments |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/e-commerce/article/3087380/chinese-tech-firms-pledge-more-help-street-stalls-small-vendors |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} Afterwards, Beijing Daily published an editorial that said "Roaming vendors and roadside stalls will put visible pressure on urban management, the environment, hygiene and traffic."{{Cite news |last=Liu |first=Zhen |date=8 June 2020 |title=Beijing city authorities reject calls to let roadside stalls return, saying they are ‘unsuitable’ for city |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/3087932/beijing-city-authorities-rejects-calls-allow-roadside-stalls |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In August 2020, during a meeting of the State Council, Li urged local governments to allocate central government support to businesses and households.{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Xin |date=18 August 2020 |title=Coronavirus: China’s State Council urges local authorities to speed up fiscal support for small firms |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3097838/coronavirus-chinas-state-council-urges-local-authorities |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In October 2020, Li attended an innovation forum in Shanghai via video link, where he said China would increase "engagement in the global innovation network".{{Cite news |last=Wu |first=Wendy |date=23 October 2020 |title=Chinese leaders call for more international scientific cooperation |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3106848/chinese-leaders-call-more-international-scientific-cooperation |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In a video meeting with officials from five provinces in November 2020, Li called on officials to "tell the truth" about economic circumstances.{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Amanda |date=24 November 2020 |title=China’s Premier Li Keqiang orders provincial governments to ‘tell the truth’ about economic conditions |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3111153/chinas-premier-li-keqiang-orders-provincial-governments-tell |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He wrote an article in People's Daily in the same month, where he said China's economy faced "great pressure".{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Amanda |date=18 November 2020 |title=China’s Li Keqiang vows stability as ‘complex and volatile’ international climate weighs on economy |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3110388/chinas-li-keqiang-vows-stability-complex-and-volatile |work=South China Morning Post}}

In January 2021, Li held a meeting of the State Council, where he ordered ministries to bring forward measures to address existing problems in the economy.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=22 January 2021 |title=China’s small businesses in ‘urgent need’ of support to protect jobs and boost domestic demand, State Council says |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3118850/chinas-small-businesses-urgent-need-support-protect-jobs-and |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In March 2021, he announced China would increase the number of "inclusive" loans offered to micro and small businesses.{{Cite news |last=Bray |first=Chad |date=5 March 2021 |title=Two sessions 2021: China’s banks to increase lending to small businesses by 30 per cent |url=https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3124209/two-sessions-2021-chinas-banks-increase-lending-small |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2021, during a State Council meeting, Li said the economy faced "new uncertainties".{{Cite news |last=Wang |first=Orange |date=12 April 2021 |title=China GDP: ‘new uncertainties’ ahead for economy, Premier Li Keqiang warns, even with double-digit growth expected |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3129204/china-gdp-new-uncertainties-ahead-economy-premier-li-keqiang |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, he attended the annual national conference on clean governance where he said China's economy is facing challenges from government red tape and low efficiency.{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=10 May 2021 |title=Chinese Premier Li Keqiang warns of challenges over jobs, private sector, red tape |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3132948/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-warns-challenges-over-jobs-private |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In June 2021, Li chaired a meeting of the State Council, which proposed changes to the Population and Family Planning Law to boost the birthrate.{{Cite news |last=Lau |first=Mimi |date=19 June 2021 |title=China a step closer to three-child policy but what support will women need? |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3138009/china-step-closer-three-child-policy-what-support-will-women |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In August 2021, Li held a State Council meeting to approve of a plan to revitalize northeast China.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=25 August 2021 |title=China fighting ‘uphill’ battle to revitalise northeast rust-belt in latest bid to transform former industrial heartland |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3146367/china-fighting-uphill-battle-revitalise-northeast-rust-belt |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In October 2021, held a meeting of the National Energy Commission to address power shortages.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=12 October 2021 |title=China power crisis: Premier Li warns provinces not to ‘jump the gun’ by cutting electricity to homes |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3152104/china-power-crisis-premier-li-warns-provinces-not-jump-gun |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, he attended the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, where he said China has "adequate tools in our toolbox to cope with such challenges, including the energy and electricity supply strains".{{Cite news |last=He |first=Huifeng |date=14 October 2021 |title=China’s Li Keqiang acknowledges slowing economic growth, but says Beijing has the ‘tools’ to cope with headwinds |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3152370/chinas-li-keqiang-acknowledges-slowing-economic-growth-says |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In November 2021, during a meeting with the State Administration for Market Regulation, Li said China needs to lower fees and taxes for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.{{Cite news |last=Ji |first=Siqi |date=3 November 2021 |title=China must ease small firms’ tax burden amid ‘downward pressure’ on the economy, says Premier Li Keqiang |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3154701/china-must-ease-small-firms-tax-burden-amid-downward-pressure |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also held a meeting with 10 local government heads, where he urged them to prioritize small businesses.{{Cite news |last=Wang |first=Orange |last2=Ji |first2=Siqi |date=23 November 2021 |title=China on high alert for mounting economic headwinds as Li Keqiang meets with local government heads |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3157116/li-keqiang-meeting-local-government-heads-shows-beijing-high |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In March 2022, Li announced China would introduce a digital version of the national identification card.{{Cite news |last=Zheng |first=William |date=12 March 2022 |title=China plans digital version of national identification card later this year, premier says |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3170214/china-plans-digital-version-national-identification-card-later |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2022, he attended a symposium with multiple provincial leaders in Jiangxi, saying China must strengthen the "sense of urgency".{{Cite news |last=Wang |first=Orange |date=12 April 2022 |title=China’s premier flags ‘sense of urgency’ to provincial leaders in call to action |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3173992/chinas-premier-flags-sense-urgency-provincial-leaders-call |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In May 2022, Li told a teleconference of provincial leaders that the employment situation was "complicated and grim", urging them to take more action.{{Cite news |last=Sun |first=Luna |date=8 May 2022 |title=China jobs: Premier Li Keqiang warns of ‘complicated, grim’ outlook, urges action ahead of Communist Party congress |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3176960/chinese-premier-orders-more-action-job-stability-lead |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, he visited Yunnan, where he promised "resolute efforts" to crackdown on electricity cuts.{{Cite news |last=Wang |first=Orange |date=20 May 2022 |title=Chinese Premier Li Keqiang vows ‘resolute efforts’ to prevent power cuts amid ‘skyrocketing’ energy prices |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3178538/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-vows-resolute-efforts-prevent |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} he held a video conference where he spoke to more than 100,000 government cadres, where he warned about the challenges facing the economy.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=27 May 2022 |title=China GDP: Premier Li signals ‘clear urgency’ on reviving economy, but no change to zero-Covid |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3179297/china-gdp-premier-li-signals-clear-urgency-reviving-economy |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In June 2022, Li held a symposium at the Ministry of Transport, talking about the importance of transport in the market economy.{{Cite news |last=Ying |first=Leona Liu |date=8 June 2022 |title=China’s transport restrictions have upended goods trade, Premier Li says in calling for logistical changes |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3180907/chinas-transport-restrictions-have-upended-goods-trade |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He also visited Gaobeidian and Zhuozhou, Hebei, in the same month, saying "China’s ample grain supply is vital to stabilize consumer prices".{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=22 June 2022 |title=China inflation: Li Keqiang says ‘prudent’ economic policy, bumper wheat harvest leaves room to tackle risks |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3182663/china-inflation-li-keqiang-says-prudent-economic-policy |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

In July 2022, at a State Council meeting, Li called for new infrastructure projects to boost the economy.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=1 July 2022 |title=China’s Li Keqiang calls for new infrastructure push to shake off economic slowdown |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3183830/chinas-li-keqiang-calls-new-infrastructure-push-shake |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In the same month, he attended a symposium with local officials in Fujian, where he called on Shanghai, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Fujian to stabilize production and employment.{{Cite news |last=Wang |first=Orange |date=8 July 2022 |title=China’s coronavirus recovery at ‘critical point’, says Li Keqiang, singling out five regions to carry the economy |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3184654/chinas-coronavirus-recovery-critical-point-says-li-keqiang |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} He later visited the Ministry of Civil Affairs and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, later holding a seminar on employment problems and economic development.{{Cite news |last=Ying |first=Leona Liu |date=29 June 2022 |title=China jobs: ‘arduous’ task to stabilise employment and boost economy, Premier Li Keqiang says |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3183524/china-jobs-arduous-task-stabalise-employment-and-boost |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In August 2022, he visited Shenzhen, where he met in person with leaders from Guangdong and via video link with provincial leaders from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shandong, Henan and Sichuan.{{Cite news |last=Zheng |first=William |last2=He |first2=Huifeng |last3=Wong |first3=Kandy |date=17 August 2022 |title=Chinese premier renews call for economic dynamos to help stabilise road to post-Covid recovery |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3189138/chinese-premier-renews-call-economic-dynamos-help-stabilise |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} To stabilize the economy, Li also sent 16 provincial inspection teams in August. In September 2022, he held a special meeting of the State Council to "introduce policies and measures to boost consumption and investment".{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=13 September 2022 |title=As China vows to boost economy, crippling zero-Covid policy may be ‘more zealously implemented’ |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3192364/china-vows-boost-economy-crippling-zero-covid-policy-may-be |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

Li was a firm believer in the use of robust economic data to aid in government decision making. When Li initially entered office, China was facing numerous structural problems inherited from the previous administration, namely the large abundance of non-performing loans that many of the giant infrastructure projects the country had embarked on since the global financial crisis was overloaded with crushing debt, lower than expected revenues, and the increasingly large wealth gap. Under these circumstances, Li was said to have responded with what became known as "Likonomics", a term coined by economists at the investment bank Barclays Capital. Likonomics consisted of a three-prong approach that included the across-the-board reduction of debt, an end to massive stimulus practices of the Wen Jiabao government, and structural reforms.{{cite news |date=1 July 2013 |title=Likonomics: what's not to like |url=https://www.economist.com/blogs/freeexchange/2013/07/stimulus-v-reform-china |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170502005439/http://www.economist.com/blogs/freeexchange/2013/07/stimulus-v-reform-china |archive-date=2 May 2017 |access-date=13 July 2017 |newspaper=The Economist}} However, by 2014, global economic pressures and a decrease in demand of Chinese exports led to lower than expected economic growth rates. Year-on-year GDP growth amounted to less than 7.5% for the first time since 1989. Li's government then responded with tax cuts for small businesses, renovation projects of poor urban areas, and another round of rail construction, particularly focused on the country's interior.{{cite news |last1=Chen |first1=George |date=7 April 2014 |title=Forget 'Likonomics', it's all about economic stimulus in China again |url=http://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1466473/forget-likonomics-its-all-about-economic-stimulus-china-again |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141222001026/http://www.scmp.com/business/economy/article/1466473/forget-likonomics-its-all-about-economic-stimulus-china-again |archive-date=22 December 2014 |access-date=23 January 2015 |work=South China Morning Post}}

Li emphasized urbanization as a key driver of economic growth during his tenure.{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=7 March 2017 |title=How China’s rush to urbanise has created a slew of ghost towns |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/policies-politics/article/2076346/why-chinas-rush-urbanise-created-slew-ghost-towns |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} Li encouraged the policy of "mass entrepreneurship and innovation", which sought to explore new avenues of economic growth, such as e-commerce, at a time when traditional models appeared to lose momentum.{{Cite book |last=Liu |first=Lizhi |title=From Click to Boom: The Political Economy of E-Commerce in China |publisher=Princeton University Press |year=2024 |isbn=9780691254104 |pages=75}} He also promoted tax cuts; from 2015 to 2020, the government cut 7.6 trillion yuan of taxes and fees, decreasing the ratio of government tax revenues to GDP down by 3 percent to 15.2 percent.{{Cite news |last=Cai |first=Jane |date=13 April 2023 |title=Whatever happened to Likonomics? Chinese Premier Li Keqiang heads for the exit |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3212490/what-ever-happened-likonomics-chinese-premier-li-keqiang-heads-exit |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

Li was critical of unnecessary government bureaucracy, particularly at the grassroots level. He stated his belief that many lower-level officials fail to provide services to the public in an effective manner. Regarding his disdain for the matter, Li's many quotable anecdotes have become viral. In May 2015, Li referred to a case in which a citizen filling out a form to travel overseas (normal in the PRC) had to write down an emergency contact (the citizen put down their mother as the contact), and the government official overseeing the matter asked the citizen to provide a notarized document to "prove your mom is your mom."{{cite news |date=6 May 2015 |script-title=zh:李克强：证明"你妈是你妈"是天大笑话 |work=Duowei News |url=http://china.dwnews.com/news/2015-05-06/59651826.html |url-status=live |access-date=14 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518104519/http://china.dwnews.com/news/2015-05-06/59651826.html |archive-date=18 May 2015}} Li called this incident "absolutely preposterous". In another case, he referred to a grassroots civil servant who asked for proof that a one-year old does not have a criminal record in order to deliver a government service.{{cite news |date=12 May 2015 |script-title=zh:李克强屡斥"奇葩"证明 简政放权再推进 |work=Chinanews |url=http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2015/05-13/7274063.shtml |url-status=live |access-date=14 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518093111/http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2015/05-13/7274063.shtml |archive-date=18 May 2015}} In yet another case, Li referred to a senior citizen applying for welfare benefits being forced by government employees to provide proof that "they are still alive." Regarding the latter two incidents, Li said, "this is not a joke, it's all real!"

From January 2020, Li was in charge of the Chinese government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic as the head of the Central Leading Group on Responding to the Novel Coronavirus Disease Outbreak.{{cite web |date=21 January 2020 |title=Chinese premier stresses curbing viral pneumonia epidemic |url=https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202001/21/WS5e26556ca31012821727269c.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200122124640/https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202001/21/WS5e26556ca31012821727269c.html |archive-date=22 January 2020 |access-date=22 January 2020 |website=China Daily |publisher=Xinhua News Agency |location=Beijing}}{{Cite web |date=26 January 2020 |title=China to extend Spring Festival holiday to contain coronavirus outbreak |url=http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-01/26/c_138735589.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126221455/http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-01/26/c_138735589.htm |archive-date=26 January 2020 |website=Xinhua News Agency |location=Beijing}} On 27 January, Li visited Wuhan, the original epicenter of the pandemic, to direct outbreak prevention work.{{cite web |date=27 January 2020 |title=Chinese Premier Li visits Wuhan, epicenter of virus outbreak |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-health-premier/chinese-premier-li-visits-wuhan-epicenter-of-virus-outbreak-idUSKBN1ZQ08G |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127113616/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-health-premier/chinese-premier-li-visits-wuhan-epicenter-of-virus-outbreak-idUSKBN1ZQ08G |archive-date=27 January 2020 |access-date=27 January 2020 |website=Reuters |location=Beijing}} In March 2020, Li said China should focus on the economy and employment as it had brought COVID-19 under control.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=13 March 2020 |title=Coronavirus: China’s premier shrugs off likely first quarter economic growth contraction as ‘not a big deal’ |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3075136/coronavirus-chinas-premier-shrugs-likely-first-quarter |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In April 2020, Li announced that due to the pandemic, China would extend unemployment benefits and other forms of emergency aid to migrant workers. The State Council announced state-funded infrastructure projects would use up to 15 percent of investment for a project, up from 10 percent.{{Cite news |last=Tang |first=Frank |date=21 April 2020 |title=Coronavirus: China extends welfare support to vast migrant labour force amid ‘unprecedented challenges’ |url=https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3080931/coronavirus-china-extends-welfare-support-vast-migrant-labour |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In January 2021, during a State Council meeting, Li said transparency was essential and warned against covering up outbreaks.{{Cite news |last=Yeung |first=Karen |date=10 January 2021 |title=Coronavirus: Chinese premier warns against cover-up of outbreaks |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3117109/coronavirus-chinese-premier-warns-against-cover-outbreaks |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} In March 2022, he defended China's zero-COVID policy, while pledging to follow a more "scientific and targeted" approach.{{Cite news |last=Zhuang |first=Pinghui |date=11 March 2022 |title=Zero Covid: China’s premier pledges future strategy will protect lives and supply chain |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3170167/zero-covid-chinas-premier-pledges-future-coronavirus-approach |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}}

{{See also|List of international premieral trips made by Li Keqiang}}

In April 2013, during a meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry, Li warned said "Provocations on the Korean Peninsula will harm the interests of all sides".{{Cite news |last=Ng |first=Teddy |last2=Li |first2=Raymond |date=14 April 2013 |title=Premier Li Keqiang warns North Korea: Halt 'provocations' |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1214146/premier-li-keqiang-warns-north-korea-halt-provocations |access-date=27 February 2025 |work=South China Morning Post}} Li Keqiang made his first foreign visit to India on 18 May 2013 in a bid to resolve border disputes and to stimulate economic relations.{{cite web |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/05/201351972251986773.html |title=Chinese premier visits India |work=Al Jazeera English |date=19 May 2013 |access-date=26 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314021927/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/05/201351972251986773.html |archive-date=14 March 2016 |url-status=live }} He said the choice of India as the first international visit highlights Chinese importance in its relations with the country.{{cite web |url = http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/05/20135192381468513.html |title = Chinese PM vows to build trust with India |work = Al Jazeera English |date = 19 May 2013 |access-date = 26 August 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130809130107/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/05/20135192381468513.html |archive-date = 9 August 2013 |url-status = live }} Li also visited Switzerland and Germany on his first Europe trip, and met with the two countries' leaders.[http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2013livisit/ Li visits four countries] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525153732/http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2013livisit/|date=25 May 2013}} China Daily During his visit to Pakistan, Li met with the country's top leadership and expressed his views: "As Pakistan's closest friend and brother, we would like to provide as much assistance as we can for the Pakistani side".{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2013-05/24/c_124755924.htm|title=Chinese premier hopes for more fruits in friendship with Pakistan|work=Xinhuane|date=24 May 2013|access-date=26 August 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130815091730/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2013-05/24/c_124755924.htm|archive-date=15 August 2013}} In June 2014, while visiting the United Kingdom, Li urged Scotland, which would hold an independence vote later that year, to remain part of the UK.{{Cite news |date=2014-06-17 |title=Scottish independence: Chinese premier calls for a 'united' UK |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27894257 |access-date=2025-02-27 |work=BBC News |language=en-GB}} During prime minister Narendra Modi's visit to China in 2015, Li and Modi took a selfie together at the Temple of Heaven.{{cite web |date=15 May 2015 |title=Selfie Diplomacy: India Leader Snaps Pic With China P.M. |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/selfie-diplomacy-india-leader-snaps-pic-china-p-m-n359521 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124071526/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/selfie-diplomacy-india-leader-snaps-pic-china-p-m-n359521 |archive-date=24 January 2022 |access-date=16 July 2024 |work=NBC News}}

United States lieutenant general H. R. McMaster wrote of Li that, "If anyone in the American group had any doubts about China's view of its relationship with the United States, Li's monologue would have removed them. He began with the observation that China, having already developed its industrial and technological base, no longer needed the United States."{{cite web |last1=McMaster |first1=Herbert Raymond |title=How China Sees the World |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/05/mcmaster-china-strategy/609088/ |website=The Atlantic |date=17 April 2020 |access-date=8 May 2020 |archive-date=2 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902141128/https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/05/mcmaster-china-strategy/609088/ |url-status=live }}

File:Korea President Park PrimeMinister LiKeqiang 20130628 01.jpg|June 2013, Li meets the South Korean president Park Geun-hye.

File:Premier Li Keqiang.jpg|December 2013, Li meets the Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte.

File:Chinese Premiere Li Greets Secretary Kerry in Beijing (12517506424).jpg|February 2014, Li meets the United States Secretary of State John Kerry.

File:Dilma Rousseff e o primeiro-ministro chinês Li Keqiang.jpg|May 2015, Li meets the Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff.

File:20180509jck19.jpg|May 2018, Li meets the Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe.

File:Vladimir Putin and Li Keqiang (2018-11-15) 02.jpg|November 2018, Li meets the Russian president Vladimir Putin.

On 11 March 2022, Li confirmed that he would be stepping down as premier of China upon the expiry of his second term in March 2023.{{Cite news |date=11 March 2022 |title=Chinese premier Li confirms he will step down next March |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinese-premier-li-confirms-he-will-step-down-next-march-2022-03-11/ |url-status=live |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313225410/https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinese-premier-li-confirms-he-will-step-down-next-march-2022-03-11/ |archive-date=13 March 2022}} However, there was speculation that he might continue serving as CCP Politburo Standing Committee member in another post, such as the chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, which were ultimately without foundation.{{Cite web |date=20 August 2022 |title=二十大报道：习近平连任挑战和政治局常委布局 |url=https://www.voachinese.com/a/xi-jinping-standing-committee-members-20th-party-congress/6709178.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220831233834/https://www.voachinese.com/a/xi-jinping-standing-committee-members-20th-party-congress/6709178.html |archive-date=31 August 2022 |access-date=20 August 2022 |website=Voice of America |language=zh}} During the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in October 2022, Li stepped down from the CCP Central Committee.{{Cite web |last1=Gan |first1=Nectar |last2=McCarthy |first2=Simone |date=22 October 2022 |title=China's Xi emerges from Communist Party Congress with more power, set for third term |url=https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/22/china/china-party-congress-closing-day-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221022214146/https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/22/china/china-party-congress-closing-day-intl-hnk/index.html |archive-date=22 October 2022 |access-date=22 October 2022 |publisher=CNN |language=en}} Li's term officially ended on 11 March 2023, and he was succeeded by Li Qiang, a close ally of Xi.{{Cite news |date=11 March 2023 |title=China's parliament names Xi Jinping ally Li Qiang as new premier |work=Al Jazeera |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/3/11/china-parliament-names-xi-jinping-ally-li-qiang-as-new-premier |access-date=14 March 2023 |archive-date=13 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313162530/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/3/11/china-parliament-names-xi-jinping-ally-li-qiang-as-new-premier |url-status=live }} Although it was excluded from the official transcript, his farewell speech included the remark: "While people work, heaven watches. It looks like that heaven has eyes."

After Li stepped down as Premier in March 2023, he has visited Mogao Caves in Gansu in August 2023, which is his first public appearance after his retirement and last public appearance before his death.{{cite web|url=https://www.zaobao.com.sg/realtime/china/story20231027-1446071|title=李克強病逝消息震驚輿論 生前視頻和語錄被熱轉|date=27 October 2023|accessdate=27 October 2023|website=联合早报|archive-date=27 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027061844/https://www.zaobao.com.sg/realtime/china/story20231027-1446071|url-status=live}}

File:President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and his long-time partner Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña greet People’s Republic of China State Council Premier Li Keqiang’s wife Cheng Hong.jpg in 2019]]

{{main|Death of Li Keqiang}}

Li Keqiang died at Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (上海中医药大学附属曙光医院) in Pudong at 00:10 CST on 27 October 2023 at the age of 68 after a heart attack the previous day.{{Cite news |last1=Chan |first1=Laurie |last2=Yew |first2=Lun Tian |date=27 October 2023 |title=China's former premier Li Keqiang has died – state media |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinas-former-premier-li-keqiang-has-died-state-media-2023-10-27/ |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027053605/https://www.reuters.com/world/china/chinas-former-premier-li-keqiang-has-died-state-media-2023-10-27/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last1=Tan |first1=Yvette |last2=McDonnell |first2=Stephen |date=27 October 2023 |title=Former China PM Li Keqiang dead at 68 |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-67235777/ |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027002441/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-67235777 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last1=Mai |first1=Jun |last2=Wu |first2=Wendy |last3=Dang |first3=Yuanyue |last4=Tang |first4=Frank |date=27 October 2023 |title=Li Keqiang, former premier of China, dead after heart attack |language=English |work=South China Morning Post |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3239355/li-keqiang-former-premier-china-dead |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027003003/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3239355/li-keqiang-former-premier-china-dead |url-status=live }} The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that the heart attack occurred as he swam at Shanghai's Dongjiao State Guest Hotel.{{Cite news |date=27 October 2023 |title=Li Keqiang: former premier had fatal heart attack during swim in Shanghai, sources say |work=South China Morning Post |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3239502/li-keqiang-former-premier-had-fatal-heart-attack-during-swim-shanghai-sources-say |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027155619/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3239502/li-keqiang-former-premier-had-fatal-heart-attack-during-swim-shanghai-sources-say |url-status=live }} The Standard reported that long-term use of anti-rejection drugs following a liver transplant were a contributing factor.{{cite web | url=https://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news/section/11/257447/Flags-at-half-mast-at-farewell-for-Li | title=Flags at half-mast at farewell for Li | access-date=1 November 2023 | archive-date=4 November 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104233035/https://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news/section/11/257447/Flags-at-half-mast-at-farewell-for-Li | url-status=live }} SCMP reported that he had also undergone coronary artery bypass surgery.

Li's remains were flown to Beijing on 27 October.{{Cite web |last=huaxia |date=31 October 2023 |title=Remains of Li Keqiang to be cremated on Nov. 2 |url=https://english.news.cn/20231031/f137f9d0c72b467bae3f448bbd27fd29/c.html |access-date=31 October 2023 |website=Xinhua |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031084903/https://english.news.cn/20231031/f137f9d0c72b467bae3f448bbd27fd29/c.html |url-status=live }} On 2 November, a memorial ceremony was held at the Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery and he was cremated. Attendees of the ceremony included Xi Jinping, his wife Peng Liyuan, Premier Li Qiang, all other members of the 20th Politburo Standing Committee, and Vice President Han Zheng. According to state media, former leader Hu Jintao sent flowers and did not attend.{{Cite news |last1=Zhuang |first1=Sylvie |last2=Zheng |first2=William |date=2 November 2023 |title=President Xi Jinping and China's leadership pay final tribute to former premier Li Keqiang |work=South China Morning Post |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3240070/chinas-president-xi-jinping-pays-final-tribute-former-premier-li-keqiang-cremation-ceremony-set |access-date=2 November 2023 |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102071603/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3240070/chinas-president-xi-jinping-pays-final-tribute-former-premier-li-keqiang-cremation-ceremony-set |url-status=live }} National flags were flown at half-mast at Chinese government buildings, diplomatic missions, and in Hong Kong and Macau.File:The Crowd Offers Flowers in Front of Li Keqiang's Former Residence in Mourning (20231029).jpg, Hefei.]]

Li was married to Cheng Hong, a professor in English Language and Literature (especially American Naturalism) at the Capital University of Economics and Business in Beijing. His father-in-law was once the deputy secretary of the Communist Youth League Central Committee. Alongside Mandarin, he also spoke conversational English.{{Cite news |title=Li Keqiang's Wife and In-laws |url=http://www.dwnews.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2008_11_20_16_59_35_980.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130122063549/http://www.dwnews.com/gb/MainNews/Forums/BackStage/2008_11_20_16_59_35_980.html |archive-date=22 January 2013 |work=Duowei Monthly |date=21 November 2008}}

Li was generally regarded as advocating economic reform and liberalization. He was described as representing the less ideological and more pragmatic and technocratic side of China's leadership.{{Cite news |date=10 May 2022 |title=Mixed Messages From Top China Leaders Feed Speculation of Split |language=en |work=Bloomberg News |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-05-10/mixed-messages-from-top-china-leaders-feed-speculation-of-split |url-status=live |access-date=8 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703044517/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-05-10/mixed-messages-from-top-china-leaders-feed-speculation-of-split |archive-date=3 July 2022}} In August 2022, Li gave a speech in Shenzhen praising Deng Xiaoping and his economic reforms, which was later censored by the Chinese government.{{Cite news |last=Wei |first=Lingling |date=17 October 2022 |title=Xi Jinping's Ideological Ambition Challenges China's Economic Prospects |language=en-US |work=The Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-economy-xi-jinping-ideology-11666016306 |access-date=18 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221018061250/https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-economy-xi-jinping-ideology-11666016306 |archive-date=18 October 2022 |issn=0099-9660}} Wang Juntao, a Chinese dissident and former colleague of Li during his studies at the Peking University, said that Li was "very interested" in political reform.{{Cite news |date=2 March 2023 |title=China's prime minister, Li Keqiang, is about to retire |newspaper=The Economist |url=https://www.economist.com/china/2023/03/02/chinas-prime-minister-li-keqiang-is-about-to-retire |access-date=15 March 2023 |issn=0013-0613 |archive-date=5 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305233831/https://www.economist.com/china/2023/03/02/chinas-prime-minister-li-keqiang-is-about-to-retire |url-status=live }}

In February 2012, Li wrote an article in Qiushi, Li wrote that too little of China's economy was driven by consumption, and that China should expand the share of middle-income earners by finding ways for low-income people to earn more, including through wage rises, expanding the social security network, business incentives, subsidizing housing and giving more affordable medical care.

• 60px {{ill| Gold Medal of Hellenic Parliament|el|Χρυσό Μετάλλιο της Βουλής των Ελλήνων|lt= Gold Medal of Hellenic Parliament}} (Greece, 2014){{cite web|url=https://www.xinhuanet.com/world/2014-06/20/c_126645912.htm|title=李克强会见希腊议长，获授金质勋章|newspaper=Xinhua|date=20 June 2014|access-date=28 October 2023|archive-date=12 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200812081331/https://www.xinhuanet.com/world/2014-06/20/c_126645912.htm|url-status=live}}
• 60px Nishan-e-Pakistan (Pakistan, 2013){{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-arrives-in-pak-on-two-day-visit/articleshow/20204553.cms?from=mdr|title=Chinese Premier Li Keqiang arrives in Pak on two-day visit|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=22 May 2013|access-date=17 August 2022|archive-date=17 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220817110742/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/chinese-premier-li-keqiang-arrives-in-pak-on-two-day-visit/articleshow/20204553.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}}

• {{Cite book |last1=Li |first1=Yining |author-link1=Li Yining |last2=Meng |first2=Xiaosu |last3=Li |first3=Yuanchao |author-link3=Li Yuanchao |last4=Li |first4=Keqiang |date=December 2018 |title=The Strategic Choice for China's Prosperity |url=https://catalogue.nlb.gov.sg/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/ENQ/WPAC/BIBENQ?SETLVL=1&BRN=203880623 |edition=English |language=en |translator-last1=Shi |translator-first1=Guangjun |translator-last2=Jiang |translator-first2=Hongxing |location=Singapore |publisher=South Ocean Publishing House}}

• {{Portal inline|Biography}}
• {{Portal inline|China}}
• {{Portal inline|Politics}}
• Tuanpai

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{{Reflist}}

• {{Commons and category-inline}}
• {{Wikiquote-inline}}
• {{wikisource author-inline}}
• [http://english.gov.cn/premier/ Premier Li Keqiang at the State Council website]
• [https://english.news.cn/20231027/346e6cec36ca4d1d882a14a9f6d47331/c.html Li Keqiang passes away: Official Obituary]
• {{C-SPAN|70072}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Li, Keqiang}}

Category:1955 births

Category:2023 deaths

Category:20th-century Chinese economists

Category:20th-century Chinese politicians

Category:21st-century Chinese politicians

Category:CCP committee secretaries of Henan

Category:Chinese Communist Party politicians from Anhui

Category:Delegates to the 10th National People's Congress

Category:Delegates to the 11th National People's Congress

Category:Delegates to the 12th National People's Congress

Category:Delegates to the 13th National People's Congress

Category:Delegates to the 17th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Delegates to the 18th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Delegates to the 19th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Delegates to the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Delegates to the 8th National People's Congress

Category:Delegates to the 9th National People's Congress

Category:Economists from Anhui

Category:First secretaries of the Communist Youth League of China

Category:First vice premiers of the People's Republic of China

Category:Foreign recipients of the Nishan-e-Pakistan

Category:Governors of Henan

Category:Family of Li Keqiang

Category:Members of the 15th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Members of the 16th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Members of the 17th Politburo Standing Committee of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Members of the 18th Politburo Standing Committee of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Members of the 19th Politburo Standing Committee of the Chinese Communist Party

Category:Peking University alumni

Category:People's Republic of China politicians from Anhui

Category:Political office-holders in Liaoning

Category:Politicians from Hefei

Category:Premiers of the People's Republic of China

Category:Tuanpai