Former French PM Balladur dies aged 97

Edouard Balladur, the former French Prime Minister, passed away in Paris on Monday at the age of 97, according to his family's statement to AFP. Born in Turkey, Balladur held the position of President Francois Mitterrand's last Prime Minister from March 1993 to May 1995. During his tenure, he carried out significant privatizations of state companies and made an unsuccessful bid for the top job in 1995.

Balladur faced defeat against his former political ally-turned-rival, Jacques Chirac, who went on to serve as President until 2007.

President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Balladur, describing him as a man who had France at heart and a devoted servant of the nation. Former President Nicolas Sarkozy also expressed his grief, stating that he had lost an example, a mentor, and a friend. Sarkozy mourned the loss of one of the most influential figures in his life. The family of Balladur announced that a private mass will be held in his honor, though they did not provide further details.