Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis, known for his role in guiding Greece into the European Union’s single currency, passed away on Sunday at the age of 88. He died at his summer house in the Peloponnese, where he had been vacationing in recent days. Simitis, a law professor and reformist, was a prominent figure in Greek politics, leading the PASOK socialist party from 1996 until 2004.
Simitis’ tenure as prime minister was marked by significant economic reforms. Under his leadership, Greece reduced its budget deficit and public debt, ultimately qualifying for membership in the Eurozone in 2001. His government’s efforts to modernize the economy were widely recognized, although critics pointed to shortcomings, particularly regarding his handling of corruption issues.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his condolences, acknowledging Simitis as a “worthy and noble political opponent” who played a pivotal role in shaping Greece’s future. “The Prime Minister who accompanied Greece in its great national steps,” Mitsotakis said in a statement. In honor of Simitis’ contributions, the Greek government announced a four-day mourning period and confirmed that his funeral will be held at the state’s expense.
Simitis had a significant influence on the country’s political and economic landscape, although his career was not without controversy. He faced criticism for not doing enough to tackle corruption, despite his government’s focus on fiscal reform.
In the wake of the Greek debt crisis in 2012, Simitis authored the book Derailment, in which he critiqued the handling of the crisis by both Greek politicians and the European Union. He notably accused the European Commission of overlooking fiscal mismanagement under the leadership of his conservative successor.
Simitis is survived by his wife and two daughters. His passing marks the end of a long political career, leaving behind a legacy of significant, though debated, reforms in modern Greece.
Sources By Agencies
