Former Greek PM Costas Simitis Dies at 88

Costas Simitis, who served as Greece’s Prime Minister from 1996 to 2004, has passed away at the age of 88. He was instrumental in Greece’s integration into the European Union’s single currency, the euro, in 2001. His death occurred on January 5, 2025, at his summer residence in the Peloponnese region.

Political Career and Achievements

Leadership of PASOK: Simitis became the leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) in 1996, succeeding Andreas Papandreou. Under his leadership, PASOK secured electoral victories in 1996 and 2000.

Economic Reforms: He implemented austerity measures to stabilize Greece’s economy, focusing on reducing government spending and qualifying the country for eurozone membership.

EU Integration: Simitis played a pivotal role in securing Cyprus’s accession to the European Union in 2004.

Legacy and Tributes

Following his passing, the Greek government declared a four-day period of official mourning and announced a state funeral. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed respect and sorrow, acknowledging Simitis as a “worthy and noble political opponent.”

Personal Background

Born on June 23, 1936, in Piraeus, Greece, Simitis was the son of politically active parents. He studied law at the University of Marburg in Germany and economics at the London School of Economics. He is survived by his wife, Daphne, two daughters, and a granddaughter.

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