John Key vs Wen Jiabao

Key led the National Party to victory, winning 58 seats to Labour's 43. He became Prime Minister, succeeding Helen Clark, and formed a minority government with support from ACT, United Future, and the Maori Party.

Key's government implemented a series of economic stimulus measures, including tax cuts, infrastructure spending, and a deposit guarantee scheme. New Zealand avoided recession and recovered faster than many comparable economies.

Key's government coordinated the national response to the Christchurch earthquake that killed 185 people. The government established the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority and committed billions to rebuilding.

Key's government supported the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act, legalizing same-sex marriage in New Zealand. The bill passed 77-44, making New Zealand the first Asia-Pacific country to legalize same-sex marriage.

Key unexpectedly resigned as Prime Minister and National Party leader, citing family reasons. He was succeeded by Bill English. Key left with high approval ratings and a stable economy.

Wen Jiabao succeeded Zhu Rongji as Premier, continuing market reforms while emphasizing social welfare. He focused on reducing rural poverty and improving healthcare and education.

Wen Jiabao led China's response to the SARS epidemic, implementing quarantine measures and improving transparency. The crisis was contained within months, though initial delays were criticized.

Wen Jiabao's government abolished the agricultural tax, a levy that had burdened farmers for centuries. This reform reduced rural poverty and increased agricultural productivity.

In response to the global financial crisis, Wen Jiabao announced a 4 trillion yuan stimulus package focused on infrastructure, social welfare, and tax cuts. This helped China maintain high growth rates.

Wen Jiabao stepped down as Premier after two terms, retiring from public life. He was succeeded by Li Keqiang, and his policies of social welfare expansion continued.