The death of former US President Jimmy Carter was greeted with sadness across Europe, where leaders paid tribute to his legacy as an ally and defender of peace, democracy and human rights. man.
Many European leaders have responded with heartfelt tributes to the news that former US President James Earl “Jimmy” Carter has died at the age of 100, paying tribute to his remarkable life and achievements.
Mr. Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States during a critical phase of the Cold War, left a lasting impact on transatlantic relations, a theme highlighted in condolences shared by European leaders.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her condolences on social media, praising Mr Carter’s “moral leadership” and stressing that “he served his country with honor – and humanity, with compassion.” .
She also highlighted his contribution on a global scale, saying: “His work has advanced peace, health and democracy around the world.”
European Council President António Costa echoed those sentiments, calling Carter’s legacy an “inspiration” and praising the late president’s dedication to upholding human rights, dignity and peace at the center of his political life.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola described Carter as a “tireless champion of peace and human rights.”
About his Nobel Peace Prize, she added: “This prize is a testament to the decisive role he played in resolving conflicts that changed the course of history. His legacy will remain a source of inspiration for many people around the world.
Tributes from European leaders
French President Emmanuel Macron remembered Carter as an “unwavering defender of the rights of the most vulnerable” and a “tireless fighter for peace.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz noted that the world had lost “a great mediator for peace in the Middle East and for human rights.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also highlighted Mr. Carter’s pivotal role in brokering the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize.
“Motivated by his faith and deep values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad,” he said. he added.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán spoke of Carter’s unique contribution to Hungary, particularly his role in returning the Holy Crown to the Hungarian people in the late 1970s.
Mr. Orbán noted that the act “gave freedom-loving Hungarians hope in a hopeless time” and highlighted Mr. Carter’s dedication to empowering oppressed nations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed his condolences on X, formerly known as Twitter, recalling his commitment to the Christian faith, peace and democratic values. “He was a leader who served at a time when Ukraine was not yet independent, but his heart was firmly with us in our continued struggle for freedom.
The legacy of transatlantic relations
Carter’s presidency marked an important milestone in relations between the United States and Europe. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to NATO at a crucial moment in the Cold War, emphasizing the importance of collective defense.
ADVERTISEMENTMr. Carter’s efforts to encourage European allies to increase their defense spending were part of his strategy to keep the West unified in the face of Soviet influence.
“Our commitment is not to war, but to peace,” Mr. Carter said in a January 1978 speech in Brussels following a NATO summit.
“We believe that the best way to preserve peace and defend the human rights ideals of Western allies is the military capability we demonstrate.
Carter’s emphasis on human rights also resonated in Eastern Europe, with his “moral leadership”, recalled by Commission President von der Leyen, helping to bring about pressure on the Soviet Union and advance the cause of freedom in regions under authoritarian control.
ADVERTISEMENT
