Zhu Rongji

“Housing reform is not to take money out of the pockets of the common people. It is to let them buy their own houses.”

“We must be strict in running the party.”

“I will prepare 100 coffins. 99 for the corrupt officials and the last one for myself. I am ready to perish with them if that is what it takes to clean up the country.”

“My criticism is too sharp. When I see something I don't like, I have to speak out.”

“Some people say I am the 'economic czar.' I don't like that title.”

“As for myself, I am very strict with my family members and the people who work for me. I can tell you that I have never sought any personal benefits by taking advantage of my power.”

“Let all the people who have a grievance or injustice to complain about have a place to air their views.”

“Public opinion is something we must respect. We must not go against it.”

“No matter whether the front is a minefield or an abyss, I will press forward, with no hesitation and no turning back.”

“If this administration is unable to root out corruption, it would mean that the Chinese Communist Party will lose the people’s trust and the party will collapse.”

“Every time I visit the United States, I'm struck by the fact that the public is not well-informed about China.”

“I'm not a perfect man. I have my shortcomings and have made mistakes.”

“The reform is an undertaking of the entire nation. The reform is a great cause of the people. It is impossible to succeed in our reform without the support and participation of the people.”