Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou expressed condolences on Wednesday for the death of former International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Juan Antonio Samaranch.

“He was a great figure in world sports. He dedicated his life at the reformation of the Olympic Movement," Papandreou stressed in a message sent to Samaranch’s family and the IOC.

The Greek PM added that as IOC head, Samaranch had a major contribution to the transformation of the Olympic Games.

Papandreou also noted that Samaranch was the one who announced that the 2004 Olympic Games would be held in Greece.

“He was a valuable supporter in this effort. We collaborated on the Greek initiative for the creation of a Foundation of Olympic Truce. With an international campaign on this ancient Greek idea, we reached a unanimous decision of the General Assembly of UN that is renewed every time Olympic Games are held,” said Papandreou.

Samaranch died of heart and respiratory failure in Barcelona on Wednesday at 89.