Legacy of Costas Simitis: Greece's Influential Prime Minister Passes Away at 88

The Greek political landscape mourns the loss of Costas Simitis, a key figure in Greece's transition to the euro and preparations for the 2004 Olympics, who passed away in Corinth at the age of 88.

Costas Simitis, who held the office of Prime Minister of Greece and was instrumental in the country's entry into the eurozone, has passed away at the age of 88. His death occurred on Sunday at a hospital in Corinth, Greece, as confirmed by the hospital's director, Grigoris Karpouzis, without revealing the cause. In recognition of Simitis' contributions, the Greek government has announced four days of national mourning, with plans for a state burial.

Simitis, often viewed as a pragmatic leader, earned popularity among voters for his moderate approach, favoring capitalism and maintaining a good relationship with the United States, unlike some of his predecessors. His two terms in office established the longest continuous premiership seen in modern Greece, despite having succeeded Andreas Papandreou, who served longer across three non-consecutive terms.

During Simitis' tenure, Greece experienced a rise in self-confidence and national pride, evidenced by the successful bid to host the 2004 Summer Olympics and the adoption of the euro in 2001. However, these advancements ultimately contributed to a severe debt crisis that raised uncertainties concerning Greece's membership in the European Union and triggered wider issues across the eurozone.

The 2004 Olympics, which took place shortly after Simitis left office, were celebrated as a significant homecoming for Greece, marking the return of the Games to their historic roots that began in Athens in 776 B.C. Simitis' legacy remains a complex narrative of progress and caution, reflecting both achievements and the challenges that followed.