Brazilian ex-President Itamar Franco dies at 81

Former Brazilian President Itamar Franco died of a stroke in Sao Paulo on Saturday at the age of 81, hospital officials said.

Franco died in the morning at the Intensive Care Unit of Hospital Albert Einstein Sao Paulo, where he was being treated for pneumonia caused by acute leukemia.

Franco was hospitalized on May 21 for treatment of leukemia. His condition worsened after he contracted severe pneumonia.

Franco assumed the presidency in December 1992 after the impeachment of Fernando Collor de Mello amid a severe political and economic crisis.

During his mandate, Franco appointed sociologist Fernando Henrique Cardoso as finance minister, who introduced the Real Plan which stabilized the Brazilian currency. Cardoso later became his successor as president (1995-2002).

Until his death, Franco served as a senator for the Socialist Popular Party for his home state of Minas Gerais.

President Dilma Rousseff, who was also born in Minas Gerais, expressed her sadness at the death of Franco.

"Leader of the country at a crucial time in our recent history, President Itamar leaves an exemplary record of public honesty. Brazil and Minas Gerais will miss him. In this time of sorrow," Rousseff said.

Former President Fernando Henrique Cardoso called Franco a "friend," and stressed ethics and determination of the senator. "Itamar is characterized firstly by unquestionable ethical behavior, and

second, as a persistent person. When he had a target, he would manage to achieve it."

Former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Franco helped build a more equitable Brazil. "Itamar Franco's contribution was crucial for the collective construction of a more democratic and fairer country," he said.

Franco's body will be transferred Sunday morning to his hometown of Juiz de Fora, and then to Belo Horizonte, the capital city of Minas Gerais, where he will be cremated after being honored at the Liberty Palace, the government' headquarters.

Source: Xinhua

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