Cyprus says goodbye to George Vassiliou, its third president. He died on Tuesday at the age of 94. Vassiliou was an economist and businessman. He helped modernise Cyprus. He also wanted a federal solution for the divided island. A state funeral was held for him on Saturday in Nicosia.
Vassiliou served as president from 1988 to 1993. He was elected as an independent with support from the AKEL party. His goal was to bring Cyprus closer to European standards. During his presidency, the economy grew a lot. GDP per person almost doubled. He also started the University of Cyprus in 1989. His government also created the Cyprus Institute.
He strongly supported a federal structure for Cyprus. This would be a bizonal and bicommunal system. Vassiliou worked hard to negotiate peace. He wanted to end the island's division. He also focused on quality tourism. He stopped too many hotels from being built. This was to protect the island's nature and culture.
Many important people attended his funeral. The current President, Nikos Christodoulides, was there. The Greek Foreign Minister also attended. A Turkish Cypriot leader was present too. Vassiliou's wife, Androulla, said he was a kind man. He loved his country and his people very much.
George Vassiliou was a leader who changed Cyprus. He improved the economy and planned for the future. His work for a united Cyprus and his policies are remembered. His death marks the end of an era. The things he started, like education and peace efforts, will help Cyprus in the future.