BRUSSELS. Jacques Delors, the esteemed visionary and chief architect of a more unified Europe, passed away at the age of 98 in Paris, as confirmed by the Delors Institute think tank on Wednesday. Delors, often referred to as “Mr. Europe,” played a pivotal role in shaping the European Union during his transformative decade as chief executive.

In a statement, the Delors Institute expressed the profound loss, stating, “The whole of Europe mourns the death of one of its greatest architects.” They highlighted Delors’ enduring legacy, attributing the success of European integration to his vision, courage, conviction, perseverance, and relentless work during his tenure at the helm of the European Commission.

French President Emmanuel Macron’s office paid tribute to Delors, emphasizing his humble beginnings and unwavering commitment to human righteousness. Macron remarked that Delors never allowed the heights of power to compromise his moral integrity.

Jacques Delors, a Socialist and Catholic, earned the moniker “Mr. Europe” during his time as head of the EU bureaucracy from 1985 to 1995. Under his leadership, member countries agreed to dismantle barriers inhibiting the free movement of capital, goods, services, and people. Delors also played a crucial role in formulating the blueprint for economic and monetary union, resulting in the establishment of the European Central Bank and the euro currency.

Despite the success of his initiatives, some of Delors’ achievements faced challenges in the years leading up to his death. The eurozone experienced a crisis with Greece, and the EU grappled with a surge of refugees and migrants, revealing divisions within the bloc. In 2016, the UK voted to leave the EU, a move that contradicted Delors’ vision of an “ever-closer union.”

In a warning that resonates even today, Delors cautioned Europeans in 1995 about the future filled with danger. He stressed the importance of agreements at political, social, and economic levels to ensure the continued stability of the continent.

Wim Kok, former Dutch prime minister, praised Delors as the man who determined the face of Europe for a decade. Delors, however, viewed himself as merely one element in the chain, satisfied with the work accomplished during his tenure.

Delors’ influence extended beyond economic matters, as the EU evolved into areas such as foreign policy, customs and border controls, justice, and home affairs. Nevertheless, his vision of a federal Europe faced resistance, and the Maastricht Treaty in 1992 curtailed some of the powers he sought for the European Commission.

In his farewell address in 1995, Delors expressed satisfaction with the foundations of the European house, which he believed were solid. Post-Brussels, he continued to contribute to European policy discussions through a think tank in Paris.

Jacques Delors, a self-made man from a working-class background, left an indelible mark on European history. His legacy will be remembered as a driving force behind the EU’s transformation into a more unified and cooperative entity.

(With inputs from agencies)