Jacques Delors receives heartfelt condolences for shaping the modern EU

Former European Commission President Jacques Delors has passed away at the age of 98, and political leaders around the world are paying tribute to his legacy. Serving from 1985 to 1995, Delors played a crucial role in establishing the single market within the European Union (EU), enabling the free movement of goods, services, and people across the bloc. He also laid the foundation for the adoption of the euro as the common currency of the EU. Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson described Delors as a towering political figure and the architect of the modern European Union. Delors' leadership contributed to the development of key EU agreements such as the Schengen agreement for travel and the Erasmus program for student exchanges. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Delors as a statesman with a French destiny and an inexhaustible craftsman of the European project. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recognized Delors as a visionary who played a central role in shaping the EU's current structure. However, Delors' vision of an ever closer union was not universally embraced, particularly by former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who strongly opposed his proposals for economic and monetary union. Despite their disagreements, Delors' impact on European integration is widely recognized and respected. His successors, including current European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and former Portuguese Prime Minister José Manuel Barroso, praised his contributions and negotiating skills. Delors is remembered as a pragmatic problem-solver who had a clear vision for the future of Europe. Tributes to Delors have also come from outside of Europe, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasizing his role in transforming Europe and advocating for unity. Delors declined to run for the French presidency after leaving his position in 1995, remaining true to his federalist ideals. In more recent years, he warned about the dangers of populism in Europe, urging bold actions in response to Brexit. Delors' impact on European integration and his commitment to the European project will be remembered and celebrated by leaders and citizens alike.