World leaders around the globe have expressed their condolences following the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100 on Sunday. As the 39th American president, Carter spearheaded significant foreign policy initiatives that continue to shape international relations today. These include brokering a historic Middle East peace agreement between Israel and Egypt, fostering diplomatic ties with China initiated during the Richard Nixon administration, and overseeing the transfer of the Panama Canal to Panamanian control through treaties signed with Panama. In 2002, Carter was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for his unwavering dedication to resolving conflicts peacefully, promoting democracy and human rights, and advocating for economic and social development.
While Carter’s efforts were widely praised, he also faced criticism for his handling of the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, during which American citizens were held captive for 444 days by Iranian revolutionaries at the US embassy in Tehran. Despite this challenge, Carter’s legacy as a champion of peace and diplomacy endures.
World leaders have shared their tributes to Carter’s life and work, highlighting his impact on global affairs and his commitment to humanitarian causes. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi emphasized Carter’s role in maintaining the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel, while Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino acknowledged Carter’s instrumental role in negotiating the Torrijos-Carter Treaties that led to the transfer of the Panama Canal. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Carter’s contributions to international peace and human rights, noting his efforts in conflict resolution, democracy promotion, and disease prevention. French President Emmanuel Macron commended Carter for his lifelong advocacy for the most vulnerable populations. Let us honor the memory of former President Jimmy Carter and the enduring impact of his legacy.
