George Vassiliou, a former president of Cyprus, has died. He was 94 years old. He died on Tuesday evening. He was in the hospital for a chest infection. His family said he died peacefully. He was ill for two years.
George Vassiliou was born in 1931. He worked in schools and business. Then he became president in 1988. He was president for five years. He wanted to make Cyprus better. He also wanted Cyprus to join the European Union. This was a big step.
He started the University of Cyprus. He cared about education. He also wanted peace for Cyprus. Many people liked him. They thought he was a good leader.
The current president is sad. He said Vassiliou helped Cyprus grow. He also helped people. His wife said he was a good husband and father. He loved his country.
A funeral will be on Saturday. It will be a special funeral. People can see him on Friday. Saturday will be a day off work. Flags will be low. George Vassiliou will be remembered.