General Claudio Graziano, the chairman of Italian State-controlled shipbuilder Fincantieri, has died at the age of 70. Suicide is among the possible causes of death of the Chairman of the European Union Military Committee and former Italian Defence Chief of Staff, sources said on Monday. Graziano's wife had passed away recently.
Fincantieri's share prices dropped by over 3%, taking it under the five-euros mark, after the news of Graziano's death came out.
President Sergio Mattarella and Premier Giorgia Meloni both voiced sadness at the general's death.
"I express deep sorrow at the news of the sudden passing of General Claudio Graziano," said Mattarella.
"I remember him as a generous and loyal man of the institutions, capable of always putting his competence and professionalism at the service of the Republic, qualities demonstrated in the important lead roles, both national and international, he held during his long career" Meloni said she was "shocked" by the news.
"An upright servant of the State, who throughout his life brought honour to the nation, the Armed Forces and the institutions with dedication, competence and professionalism, has left us," she said.
Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said via X that "the passing of General Claudio Graziano leaves me speechless.
"He was a friend and was an extraordinary officer who brought honor to Italy, including in his European roles," Tajani said.
"May a prayer accompany him on the journey to his wife".
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