Former US President, Jimmy Carter
World leaders have paid tribute to former U.S. President Jimmy Carter following his passing on Sunday at the age of 100. Carter, the 39th president of the United States, is remembered for his significant contributions to global diplomacy and peace.
His achievements include brokering the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, normalizing relations with China, and signing the treaties that transferred control of the Panama Canal to Panama, reshaping U.S. foreign policy in the process.
Carter, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his dedication to peace, democracy, and human rights, left a lasting impact on global affairs.
His work to resolve international conflicts and promote social development remains a benchmark in statesmanship.
However, his presidency was not without criticism, notably for his handling of the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, a defining moment that tested his leadership.
In response to his death, U.S. President Joe Biden issued a proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days and declared January 9, 2025, as a National Day of Mourning.
Biden praised Carter’s humanitarian efforts, stating that his legacy resonates worldwide, even with those who never met him.
He ended his statement with a personal note, saying, “I think he’s happy, and he’s happy with Rosie,” referring to Carter’s late wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023.
Former U.S. Presidents also shared their condolences.
Bill Clinton, on social media, mourned Carter’s life of service and faith. Donald Trump, on Truth Social, recognized Carter’s challenges and his commitment to improving American lives.
Barack Obama, in his tribute, highlighted Carter’s honesty and integrity, particularly after the Watergate scandal, describing him as a leader who prioritized truth, respect, and compassion.
International leaders also expressed their admiration. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi praised Carter’s role in the Egypt-Israel peace agreement, while Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino reflected on Carter’s key role in the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which transferred control of the Panama Canal to Panama.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also honored Carter’s efforts toward international peace, particularly the Camp David Accords and the SALT II Treaty.
French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Carter’s unwavering commitment to peace and human rights, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude for Carter’s support of Ukraine in its struggle for freedom.
Leaders from Hungary, Canada, Brazil, Cuba, Israel, Japan, and Germany joined in paying tribute, celebrating Carter’s lifelong dedication to democracy, peace, and humanitarian causes.
Carter’s legacy as a peacemaker and advocate for human rights will be remembered and honored by people and leaders across the globe, who admired his tireless service to others throughout his life.