Source: thestar
Germany’s former chancellor Helmut Kohl died on Friday, after a prolonged illness. Kohl led the European nation from 1982 to 1998. He was largely attributed for the reunification of East and West Germany; nearly 45 years after they were divided post-Second World War. The fall of Berlin Wall is reflected as the epitome of his tenancy as the chancellor in Germany.
The octogenarian leader breathed his last at his house in Ludwigshafen, reported Bild. He had been staying in the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate after retirement from active politics.
Kohl is also remembered for introducing the Euro, together with a close ally and French President Francois Mitterrand. The global community also recalls his famous debate in the European Parliament with the then UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
Senior Christian Democrats leader Sigmar Gabriel expressed mourning over Kohl’s demise. He called him “one of the greatest German statesman and above all a great European.”
Former US President George W Bush recalled Kohl as “true friend of freedom”. Kohl was “one of the greatest leaders in post-war Europe,” he said.
The European Union flag would remain at half-mast on Friday to honor Kohl.