The Indian Diaspora Council (IDC) has joined its global network, organizations, and friends in mourning the loss of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at age 100 on Dec. 30, 2024, in Plains, Georgia.
Carter, the 39th President of the United States (1977–1981) and the 76th Governor of Georgia (1971–1975), spent his final years in hospice care. His wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, passed away in 2023.
Carter is remembered for his significant role in brokering peace between Egypt and Israel, leading to the signing of the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty in March.26, 1979. This historic agreement was part of the Camp David Accords, a diplomatic milestone that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. The award recognized his "decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development."
During his presidency (1977–1981), Jimmy Carter signed treaties returning the Panama Canal to Panama, improving U.S.-Latin American relations, and honoring international agreements. He also signed the U.S.-India nuclear agreement and prioritized human rights, criticizing oppressive regimes worldwide.
After leaving office, Carter founded the Carter Center to promote democracy and resolve conflicts, notably overseeing Guyana's free and fair 1992 elections and helping develop its National Development Strategy.
Together with his wife Rosalynn, Carter co-founded Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit building affordable housing in all 50 U.S. states and around 70 countries. The organization empowers families by involving them in constructing their homes and providing affordable mortgages.
Dr. Nicole Bissessar, Director of Community Cultural Affairs, at the IDC, said Carter's legacy is marked by his commitment to human rights, diplomacy, and post-presidency humanitarian work, including the establishment of The Carter Center.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, "A statesman of great vision, he worked tirelessly for global peace and harmony. His contributions to fostering strong India-US ties leave a lasting legacy.”
US President Joe Biden said that Carter “stands as a model of what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose, a life of principle, of faith and humility. His life dedicated to others.”
US Vice President Kamala Harris also shared, “Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith — in God, in America, and humanity. He reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion.”
In a Truth Social post, US President-Elect Donald Trump offered his “highest respect” to Carter while he also said, he “strongly disagreed with him philosophically and politically.”
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked, “His presidency will be remembered for the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and it was that lifelong dedication to peace that saw him receive the Nobel Peace Prize.”
"Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace," commented French President Emmanuel Macron.
UK King Charles reflected, "His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977."
Guyana President Dr Irfaan Ali: “His legacy is intertwined with the story of Guyana’s journey towards democracy and development. Guyana will forever remember and be grateful to
President Carter for the election observer missions the Carter Centre undertook in Guyana. These missions acted as a watchdog of transparency, fairness, and credibility in the electoral process.”
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi noted, "His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history, and his humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood.”
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