European Parliament pays tribute to David Sassoli

Heads of states and government and lawmakers across Europe paid tribute on Monday to David Sassoli, the President of the European Parliament, who died last week at the age of 65. 

European Council President Charles Michel praised Sassoli's handling of Brexit and his determination to hold the union together in times of crisis. French leader Emmanuel Macron described Sassoli's swift action during the pandemic, including his decision to open deserted Parliament buildings to families in need and women facing domestic violence.

Sassoli, a socialist, had been hospitalized since Dec. 26 because of abnormal functioning of his immune system. He was buried last Friday.