Farewell to Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis

Friends, family, political leaders, and foreign delegations gathered at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens on Thursday to bid farewell to former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis. Many citizens also attended to pay their respects to the influential statesman, CE Report quotes Athens-Macedonian

The funeral service was officiated by Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece. Eulogies were delivered by President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis, and other prominent figures, including academics and former ministers.

Following the service, a procession headed to the First Cemetery of Athens, where Simitis, a twice-elected prime minister, was honored for his contributions to Greece.

President Sakellaropoulou’s Tribute
In her eulogy, President Sakellaropoulou called Simitis "a major figure of our contemporary history," praising his unwavering defense of democracy and his role in shaping post-dictatorship Greece. She highlighted his reformist approach, commitment to high standards of governance, and avoidance of populist rhetoric, describing him as a man of ideas, reason, and democratic principles.

Costas Simitis leaves behind a legacy of integrity, rationality, and dedication to public service, deeply marking Greece’s political and social evolution.