European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has paid tribute to former Estonian Prime Minister and European Commission Vice President Siim Kallas following his death at age 77, as announced by his daughter, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, on Saturday. The distinguished statesman and economist passed away on Friday night, leaving behind a legacy that shaped both Estonia’s independence and European integration.
Kaja Kallas shared the news on Instagram, writing that it was with sadness she must announce her dear father’s passing. Metsola responded with heartfelt condolences on social media, reflecting on the courage required to rebuild Estonia and introduce its currency in the 1990s, along with the quiet conviction Kallas brought to Brussels in later years. She emphasized that both Estonia and Europe are better off because of his life’s work.
Born in 1948, Siim Kallas served as President of the Bank of Estonia from 1991 to 1995, where he played a crucial role in creating the national currency, the kroon. He became Estonia’s first European Commissioner in 2004, marking a significant milestone for the Baltic nation’s integration into European institutions.
The European Commission also expressed condolences to the Kallas family on social media. Metsola wished Kaja Kallas and her family strength and warmth during this difficult time, acknowledging the profound loss to both European politics and the family.
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