Cyprus is very sad. Former President George Vassiliou died. He was 94 years old. He died on Tuesday night. He was a very important person for Cyprus. Many people remember his good work. He helped the country's politics and economy.
A big funeral will happen. It is on Saturday, January 17th. This day will be a holiday. People can say goodbye to him. The President and other leaders are sad. They say he did a lot for Cyprus.
George Vassiliou was President for five years. He helped Cyprus join the European Union. He also helped start new schools. People said he was a good and hard worker. He wanted to help Cyprus be one country.
His funeral is at a church. Then he will be buried. The holiday is for people to be sad. But some shops will be open. George Vassiliou's work will be remembered.