After a two-year struggle with health problems, George Vasiliou, the former President of Cyprus, has died at 93. He was a key figure in Cypriot politics, making a lasting impact on the country’s economy and society. Let’s take a look at some highlights from his life, presidency, and political career, along with memorable words from those who knew him or disagreed with him.
The news of his passing was shared by his wife, Androulla Vasiliou. She said goodbye with deep emotion, noting that she was parting from her partner of 59 years.
His death stirred deep feelings across the nation. Politicians from all parties are saying farewell to George Vasiliou. Citizens are sharing heartfelt messages on social media, remembering a man who influenced history and touched lives beyond politics.
George Vasiliou was a politician known for his knowledge, compassion, and strong principles. From the start of his political journey, he dedicated himself to the country and its people. He worked hard for economic growth, social welfare, and modernizing Cyprus. His role in bringing Cyprus into the European Union was crucial. He treated colleagues and opponents with sincerity, dialogue, and respect. His life and political moments remind us that politics is about serving people and society. He leaves behind an unforgettable legacy of dedication and stability.
The state, political institutions, parties, and everyday citizens are bidding farewell to a President who shaped modern Cyprus.
The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, described George Vasiliou as a leader associated with economic growth, social progress, and modernizing the Cypriot state. He highlighted Vasiliou’s vital role in Cyprus’s European journey and his lifelong commitment to resolving the Cyprus issue and reuniting the homeland. A special meeting of the Council of Ministers will be held to discuss his funeral arrangements and honors.
Stefanos Stefanou- I say goodbye with respect to George Vasiliou. He made significant positive contributions to our country’s public affairs. His presidency changed Cyprus’s economy and society. A visionary and honest leader who always sought solutions.
Nikos Tornaritis- I never voted for George Vasiliou. Still, I believe he was a President with vision and genuine passion for uniting our land. We say goodbye with appreciation to President George Vasiliou.
Ttimi Efthymiou- Former President George Vasiliou has passed away. A president with vision and ethics. Eternal be his memory.
Dimitris Kalergis- Farewell President! May your memory be eternal.
The Speaker of Parliament Annita Demetriou, noted that George Vasiliou’s contributions during a crucial time for the country are key parts of modern political history.
Maria Koniotou- Farewell President! Eternal be your memory! (In his office at KEMA March 2020)
The government ministers talked about his time in office as a period of modernization and democratic progress. They highlighted how he submitted Cyprus’s EU membership application, aligned with EU standards, established University Cyprus, and opened new opportunities for young people.
George Pavlidis- Safe travels President!
I always appreciated former President George Vasiliou. He was a visionary who worked hard to strengthen our economy while looking ahead. My sincere condolences to his family. Eternal be his memory.
A special mention was made about his role after 1993. Even after losing an election, he accepted the position of Chief Negotiator for Cyprus’s EU accession. His efforts were crucial in shaping the country’s future.
Christoforos Christoforou-Farewell President! You gave us vision, hope, and faith. You set a standard for leaders today. You’ll always be remembered fondly. Farewell my friend George Vasiliou!
The AKEL party expressed sorrow over George Vasiliou’s passing. They noted that he served with dedication and rationality as the third President of Cyprus. Under his leadership, Cyprus made real progress in democratization and development. He left significant legacies like founding University Cyprus. Above all, he committed to solving the Cyprus issue within UN resolutions while fostering a European path for the country.
Citizens shared emotional tributes about their experiences working or living closely during his presidency. Many praised him as an honest leader who brought democracy and enhanced freedom of expression while transitioning Cyprus into a more modern society. Others remembered the optimism that filled that period as trust grew between citizens.
Kostas Odysseos-Elder generations rightly consider him the best President of Cyprus. He did everything possible to modernize the country and submitted our EU membership application. Eternal be his memory.
A common theme in all statements is recognizing that George Vasiliou was a unique political figure: intelligent with groundbreaking vision and administrative skills. He governed for just five years but left behind a more mature institutionally focused on Europe.
Athena Louka-Eternal be your memory… Safe travels into light!!!!
Pictured with journalist Maria Rezan in 1989; first comment preserved in Radio Foundation Archive collaboration.
