Former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis Passes Away at 88

Former Greek Prime Minister Kostas Simitis passed away in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 88.

According to Grigoris Karpouzis, director of the Corinth Hospital, Mr. Simitis was transferred from his summer residence in Agioi Theodoroi to the hospital in the early morning without a pulse. His death was confirmed upon arrival at the hospital. Mr. Karpouzis verified the news during a statement to SKAI television.

Kostas Simitis was one of the most prominent political figures in modern Greece, leaving behind a rich political legacy.

Who Was Kostas Simitis?

Kostas Simitis, a university professor and politician, was among the most distinguished personalities of the contemporary Greek political scene.

He served as President of PASOK (June 30, 1996 – February 8, 2004) and Prime Minister of Greece (January 18, 1996 – March 10, 2004), shaping an era marked by significant reforms.

After the fall of the military junta in 1974, Simitis became a founding member of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK). Throughout his political career, he held various ministerial positions, playing a key role in the party’s rise to power.

His political career peaked on January 18, 1996, when he succeeded Andreas Papandreou as Prime Minister following a parliamentary vote by PASOK’s parliamentary group. Representing the modernization wing of the party, Simitis focused on economic reform and the European integration of Greece. Shortly thereafter, on June 30, 1996, he was elected President of PASOK at the party’s 4th Congress.

During his tenure, Simitis implemented measures for economic stability and pursued a moderate foreign policy.

Two of his most notable achievements were the gradual privatization of the public sector and Greece’s entry into the Economic and Monetary Union in 2001.

Second Term and Legacy

His second term was characterized by austerity measures aimed at reducing inflation and national debt, as well as efforts to resolve disputes with Turkey and the Cyprus issue.

As PASOK leader, Simitis prioritized European unification and Greece’s adaptation to the challenges of globalization. His policies reflected a shift towards aligning the country with European Union standards.

Despite the opposition his policies faced, Kostas Simitis is acknowledged for his significant contribution to shaping modern Greece.