Rudolph Angler Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis, who passed away at 88, will receive full state honours at his funeral on 9 January. The ceremony, held at the Metropolis of Athens, reflects his pivotal contributions to Greece, including its eurozone accession and support for Cyprus joining the EU.
The Greek government declared a four-day period of national mourning in recognition of Simitis’ legacy.
Born on 23 June 1936, Simitis was a distinguished academic and political leader. As Prime Minister from 1996 to 2004 and leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), he played a transformative role in Greece’s post-Junta era.
Political Achievements and Economic Reforms
Elected PASOK president in 1996 after Andreas Papandreou’s death, Simitis championed modernisation and economic reform. His leadership steered Greece toward EU integration, focusing on economic stability, privatisation, and aligning with European policies.
He won re-election in 1996 and 2000, implementing measures to curb inflation and reduce national debt. Simitis also shifted PASOK toward a centrist platform, promoting globalisation and deeper ties with Europe.
In foreign policy, he worked to resolve tensions with Turkey and championed Cyprus’ EU accession in 2004. His tenure also secured Greece’s entry into the Economic and Monetary Union in 2001, marking significant progress for the country.
Tributes from Leaders and European Figures
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola hailed Simitis as a “visionary politician with a lasting legacy in Greek and European politics.” Nikos Androulakis, PASOK leader, extended condolences to Daphne Simitis, his widow.
President Katerina Sakellaropoulou described Simitis as a cornerstone of Greece’s modern political history, offering her deepest sympathy to his family. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and other leaders also paid tribute to his contributions, cementing his place in Greece’s history.