Zhou Enlai was a prominent Chinese politician and diplomat who played a key role in the early years of the People's Republic of China. He served as the first Premier of the People's Republic of China from 1949 until his death in 1976. Zhou was known for his diplomatic skills and played a crucial role in shaping China's foreign policy during the Cold War era. He was also a close associate of Mao Zedong and was instrumental in implementing many of the policies of the Chinese Communist Party. Zhou Enlai is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern Chinese history.