Paris, France – French President Emmanuel Macron today commemorated the anniversary of the death of former French President François Mitterrand, who passed away on January 8, 1996.
He praised his political legacy and his pivotal role in consolidating the concept of French national sovereignty.
Furthermore, he lauded his efforts in building a unified Europe that enjoys peace and stability.In an official statement, Macron said that François Mitterrand was “a fierce defender of a sovereign and independent France.” He emphasized Mitterrand’s continued political commitment to ensuring that France remains a nation with free decision-making. France is capable of defending its interests and its international role in a changing world.
Long-term strategic vision
He added that Mitterrand was not merely a president of the Republic, but a statesman who left a profound mark on French and European history.
The French president noted that Mitterrand is considered one of the foremost architects of the modern European Union. He played an active role in laying the foundations of a European Union that is “free, living in peace, and aspiring to prosperity.”
He regarded this project not as a passing political choice, but rather a long-term strategic vision. Its aim was at sparing the European continent the scourge of wars and conflicts experienced in the twentieth century.
Macron emphasized that the ambition carried by François Mitterrand remains alive today.
It is an ambition of France, which sees a strong and united Europe as a fundamental pillar of its security, stability, and economic growth.
Unifying Europe economically
He stressed that the current challenges—whether geopolitical, economic, or security-related—make drawing inspiration from Mitterrand’s experience a necessity.
This is particularly important with regard to preserving French and European strategic autonomy.
It is worth noting that François Mitterrand served as President of France from 1981 to 1995.
He was the first Socialist president of the Fifth Republic. His presidency witnessed major transformations at both the domestic and European levels.
Notably, it saw the deepening of the Franco-German partnership and efforts to advance Europe’s political and economic unification.
Mitterrand’s memory remains enduring in the French collective consciousness. He continues to be present in the people’s memory as a president who laid the foundations for a strong union.
