Former Greek Prime Minister Kostas Simitis Dies

Kostas Simitis, former Prime Minister of Greece, passed away at the age of 88, prompting a national mourning period and a government decision to honor him with a state funeral. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis praised Simitis for his significant contributions to Greece, particularly his roles in the country's accession to the eurozone and Cyprus' entry into the EU. Mitsotakis emphasized Simitis' legacy of modernization and his courageous fight against dictatorship, calling him a respected political figure. Other political leaders, including PASOK's Pavlos Geroulanos, echoed sentiments of loss, describing Simitis' death as a 'great national loss' linked to Greece's historical achievements. Simitis' long political career began in activism against military dictatorship and included key ministerial roles leading up to his premiership. His academic background and reformist policies were instrumental in shaping Greece's economic landscape during his tenure.