Costas Simitis, Influential Greek Prime Minister, Passes Away at 88

Costas Simitis, Greece’s former prime minister known for overseeing significant economic reforms and national pride initiatives, has died at the age of 88. His leadership was pivotal during Greece's entry into the euro and the return of the Olympic Games, although his policies also contributed to later economic challenges.

Costas Simitis, a notable figure in Greek politics and former prime minister, has passed away at the age of 88 on Sunday at a Corinth hospital. The hospital's director, Grigoris Karpouzis, confirmed his death, but did not elaborate on the cause. In honor of Simitis, the Greek government has ordered four days of national mourning, with plans for a state burial.

Simitis served two consecutive terms as prime minister, making him one of the longest-serving modern leaders in Greece. His tenure was characterized by a pragmatic approach, balancing economic reforms with Greece’s aspirations on the global stage. Unlike some of his predecessors, Simitis displayed a favorable disposition towards capitalism and a stronger alignment with the United States.

Under his leadership, Greece adopted the euro in 2001, symbolizing a new era of economic confidence. Additionally, his administration played a crucial role in preparing the country for the Summer Olympics, which were held in Athens in 2004. These events were seen by many as a renaissance for Greece, reviving national pride.

However, the optimism surrounding these developments was overshadowed by a subsequent debt crisis, leading to significant challenges for Greece within the European Union and the eurozone. As historical context, the 2004 Olympics were celebrated as a homecoming, marking a return to the roots of the ancient games first held in 776 B.C.

Simitis’ passing marks the end of an era in Greek politics, an era shaped by ambitious reforms, significant achievements, and the eventual complexities that followed.