"Today is a sad day for Europe," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a statement on the death of European Parliament President David Sassoli.
The condolence message was broadcast live, with the European Union flags flying at half-mast in the Commission building.
"Our Union loses a passionate European, a sincere democrat and a good man," Ms von der Leyen said initially in Italian.
"Everyone loved his smile and his kindness, but he knew how to fight for what he believed in."
"In 1989, he was in Berlin, among the young Europeans when the wall came down. And since then, he has stood up for democracy and a united Europe."
"For more than ten years of service in the European Parliament, he has constantly defended our Union and its values. But he also believed that Europe must strive to achieve more."
David Sassoli, continued the Commission President, "wanted a more united Europe, closer to its people, more faithful to our values. That is his legacy."
"And that is how I will remember him. As a champion of justice and solidarity, and as a dear friend," she continued, concluding that her thoughts are with his wife, Alessandra, his children, Giulio and Livia, and all his friends.
Source: CNA
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