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Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis Dies at 88

Simitis, a reformist leader and key architect of Greece’s eurozone entry, leaves behind a complex political legacy.

  • Costas Simitis, Greece's prime minister from 1996 to 2004, played a pivotal role in securing the country's entry into the eurozone in 2001.
  • A co-founder of the Socialist PASOK party, Simitis was known for his reformist agenda and efforts to modernize Greece's economy and infrastructure.
  • He was instrumental in securing Athens as the host city for the 2004 Olympic Games and oversaw major infrastructure projects, including a new airport and metro lines.
  • Simitis's tenure faced challenges, including tensions with Turkey, internal party disputes, and later criticism over Greece’s financial reporting during its eurozone entry.
  • The Greek government has declared four days of national mourning, with tributes highlighting his significant contributions to the country’s development and European integration.
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