PM Transcripts

TEL: 9. Jan. 96 15: 33 No. 0 5 P. 01
( 3
PRIME MINISTER 1/ 96
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, THE HON P J KEATING MPDEATH
OF FRANCIOIS MITTERRAND
France, Europe and the world havc lost a distinguished statesman and
outstanding leader in Frangois Mitterrand.
Under his 14-year Presidency, France played an international role that was
engaged, energetic and constructive. His most enduring legacy will be the
vision of a unified, peaceful and outward-looking Europe. In particular,
Frangois Mitterrand was determined that France and Germany should work
together in building a uted Europe. He was an important force for
cooperation betwccn Europe and the United States. Under President Mitterrand,
France was active in seeking resolution to the problems of Cambodia and the
Middic East.
In the South Pacific, Franiois Mitterrand pursued policies of reconciliation and
understanding towards the indigenous peoplcs of France's overseas territories.
His decision to place a moratorium on French nuclear testing was a valuable
and far-sighted contribution towards the goal of nuclear non-proliferation and
won widespread appreciation in our region.
In domestic affairs, Frangois Mitterrand's commitment to human rights, social
justice and reform and his concern to apply innovation and creativity in
prcparing for the future will leave their mark on France and beyond.
Frangois Mitterrand was a truly impressive individual. He -bore his illness with
courage and dignity. Throughout, he maintained an acute intellectual capacity,
a profound sense of history and, as always, he had a crystal-clear sense of
France's interests and its place in the world. I am very glad I had the
opportunity to know Franjois Mitterrand pcrsonally.
On behalf of the peoplc of Australia, I extend my deepest sympathies to
President Mitterrand's family, and to the Government and people of France.
Senator Evans will attcnd the memorial mass in his honour in Paris on behalf of
the Australian Govermnent and people.
CANBERRA 9 January 1996