Former Greek Prime Minister Konstantinos Simitis has passed away at the age of 88, according to international media reports. Simitis, who served as prime minister from 1996 to 2004, was a pivotal figure in Greece’s modern history, leading the country through significant political and economic reforms.
Born in 1936, Simitis began his political career in the 1960s, joining the Center Union party. After the fall of the military junta in 1974, he co-founded the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) with Andreas Papandreou. Simitis served as a minister in various cabinets before becoming prime minister following Andreas Papandreou’s death in 1996.
As prime minister, Simitis guided Greece through a period of significant change. He oversaw the country’s entry into the European Monetary Union in 2001, a move that saw Greece adopt the euro as its currency. He also implemented extensive reforms aimed at modernizing the Greek economy and society.
Simitis was known for his calm and reasoned manner, earning him the nickname “the professor” due to his academic background in physics. He stepped down as prime minister in 2004, ahead of elections that brought the conservative New Democracy party to power.
After leaving office, Simitis remained active in politics and academics. He was awarded several honors, including the Grand Cross of the Order of the Phoenix, one of Greece’s highest decorations.
His passing has been met with tributes from political leaders across the spectrum, who paid homage to his contributions to Greece’s democratic consolidation and European integration. Simitis is survived by his wife and two children.
