Giscard d'Estaing's efforts have significantly bolstered the unity within Europe, as per Steinmeier's assessment.
Berlin - Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier issued a heartfelt tribute to the life's work of the late former French President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing. In a condolence telegram to French President Emmanuel Macron, Steinmeier noted that Giscard d'Estaing was a firm advocate for Franco-German friendship throughout his life. Known for his service as a member of the Resistance and a soldier, Giscard d'Estaing played a crucial part in the liberation of France and Germany from National Socialism.
Steinmeier emphasized that Giscard d'Estaing experienced the depths of Franco-German enmity in earlier years, but he always saw this understanding as a mandate to foster a better future for France, Europe, and the world. "Few have shaped united Europe as strongly as he has," Steinmeier wrote, emphasizing the close and trusting friendship he shared with the former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt.
Together, Schmidt and Giscard d'Estaing initiated the European Monetary System, which laid the foundation for the euro. Additionally, as the chairman of the presidency of the European Convention, Giscard d'Estaing contributed significantly to drafting a constitution for the European Union, which ultimately formed the basis for the Treaty of Lisbon. His passion for this work can serve as a role model and inspiration today.
Upon hearing the news of Giscard d'Estaing's death at the age of 94 from the consequences of a Covid-19 infection, Steinmeier wrote, "With the death of Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, France loses a great man and statesman, Europe a great personality and a convinced fighter for the European idea." Chancellor Angela Merkel also paid tribute to Giscard d'Estaing as a friend of Germany and "a great European."
Giscard d'Estaing served as the President of France from 1974 to 1981.
Valéry Giscard d'Estaing's significant role in shaping Europe focused on reinforcing France's position within the European Economic Community, leading efforts to draft a European constitution, participating in the European Parliament, and receiving recognition for his commitment to European unity.
Other political figures voiced their condolences, expressing their respect for Valéry Giscard d'Estaing's contribution to policy-and-legislation, particularly in the area of general-news focusing on Europe. His role in shaping the European Union, notably through the European Monetary System and the drafting of a European constitution, remains a significant legacy in the broader context of politics.
