Rome, Sep 16 (IANS/AKI) Former Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi has died in a clinic in Rome at the age of 95.
Ciampi was the first head of state and Prime Minister who had not been a member of Italy's parliament. He played a key role in guiding the country into the European single currency.
Born in Livorno in 1920, Ciampi was Italy's President from 1999 to 2006. He served as premier in 1993-94 and was previously Governor of the Bank of Italy from 1979 to 1993.
Prime minister Matteo Renzi praised Ciampi for his tireless work for Italy. "A statesman who served Italy with passion," Renzi tweeted.
An Italian life Senator, Ciampi reportedly suffered from Parkinson's disease. He is survived by his widow, Franca.
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