From now on, President Xi will hear no more arguments

It is quite possible that the departure of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang will later be described as the end of an era. The 67-year-old is considered the “last technocrat” in a government increasingly occupied by ideologues and loyalists. As usual, Li is stepping down this week after two terms in office, making way for his successor, whose name differs from him by just one syllable: Li Qiang.