Jacques Delors: Resounding Tributes Echo Across Europe

28 Dec, 2023

Jacques Delors: Resounding Tributes Echo Across Europe

Jacques Delors, an influential force behind the European Union's single currency project and former chief of the European Commission, passed away at 98, as reported by Al Jazeera.A prominent French socialist, Delors ardently championed post-war European integration and peacefully passed away in his Paris residence. His tenure as the European Commission President spanned an unprecedented three terms, from January 1985 until 1994.During his tenure, spanning a decade, the EU accomplished milestones like the integrated single market, the inception of the euro, and the development of a unified foreign policy, reported by Al Jazeera. His leadership crucially established criteria for welcoming former communist states from Central and Eastern Europe after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.Apart from his EU role, Delors significantly impacted French politics, serving as Finance Minister under President Francois Mitterrand from 1981 to 1984. Despite his popularity in polls, he abstained from running for the presidency in 1995, citing an overwhelming "desire for independence."French President Emmanuel Macron lauded Delors as an "unstoppable architect of our Europe" and a staunch advocate for human justice. Macron expressed admiration for Delors's commitment and principled nature, describing him as a statesman woven into France's destiny.Michel Barnier, the EU's key negotiator during the UK's exit from the bloc, hailed Delors as an inspiration, emphasising his embodiment of a particular political ideal in France and Europe.Delors faced challenges during his presidency, notably clashes with UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who resisted power transfer to Brussels. Nonetheless, his tenure was instrumental in establishing pivotal EU integrative facets such as the Schengen accords for travel and the Erasmus program for student exchanges.