Cyprus is sad today. The country says goodbye to George Vassiliou. He was the third president. His funeral is this afternoon. It will have special honours. The service is in Nicosia. People remember his good work. A day of mourning was announced. He died at age 94. He was sick for a long time.
George Vassiliou was an economist. He was president from 1988 to 1993. He worked hard for Cyprus. He started the University of Cyprus. This was in 1992. He cared about education. His death ends a time. He will be missed.
His wife, Androulla Vassiliou, is sad. They were married for 59 years. He died peacefully. He was a kind husband and father. He loved his country. People saw him as a great leader.
He wanted peace for Cyprus. He worked for this. The country did not unite then. But his work helped future talks.
He also made economic changes. He made services better. His plans helped the country grow. The media also became more open.
Many people send their respects. Cyprus is sad today. He will inspire the nation.