Chirac pays tribute to François Mitterrand

Chirac pays tribute to François Mitterrand

Excerpt from the statement of President Jacques CHIRAC, delivered this evening, 8 January 1996, on the occasion of the death of his predecessor François Mitterrand to whom he pays tribute: "I was the adversary of François Mitterrand, but I was also his Prime Minister and I am now his successor. All this weaves a special bond, where there is respect for the statesman and admiration for the private man who fought the disease with remarkable courage, looking at it in a way, constantly winning victories against it. From this contrasting but ancient relationship with him, I retain the strength of courage when sustained by a will, the need to place man at the heart of every project, the weight of experience. Finally, only what is in one’s truth and what can be done for France counts. On this evening of mourning for our country, I express my respect and sympathy to Mrs Mitterrand and her family. At the huere where François Mitterrand enters history, I hope that we will meditate on his message."

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File : Presidents' funeral

Publication date : 8 January 1996