Commenting on the passing of Nelson Mandela, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz stated:
"South Africa today loses its father, the world loses a hero. I pay tribute to one of the greatest humans of our time.
Nelson Mandela dies today, but his legacy will last forever. He has been a fighter, a leader and a source of inspiration for so many people throughout Africa, Europe and the entire world.
My thoughts and condolences go out to Nelson Mandela's immediate family and friends.
In recognition of his struggle, in 1988 he received the first European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought which the European parliamentarians award to honour exceptional individuals who combat intolerance, fanaticism, racism and oppression.
Through his leadership and personal example, Nelson Mandela gave new meaning to words such as freedom, equality, justice, reconciliation and forgiveness.
I wish that the world had more leaders like Nelson Mandela. Goodbye Madiba, your fight lives on in the hearts of millions!"