Cyprus is collectively bidding farewell to George Vassiliou, the nation's third president, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94. A distinguished economist and businessman, Vassiliou left an indelible mark on the island's trajectory, particularly through his unwavering advocacy for a federal solution to the protracted division and his instrumental role in modernising the Cypriot economy and its public institutions. His passing was marked by a state funeral, conducted with full presidential honours on Saturday at the Tis Tou Theou Sophias Cathedral in Nicosia, a poignant testament to his significant contributions.
Vassiliou, who served a single term as president from 1988 to 1993, was elected as an independent candidate with the crucial backing of the AKEL party. His tenure was characterised by a robust agenda aimed at propelling Cyprus towards European standards and fostering intellectual and economic advancement. During his presidency, the island witnessed a remarkable economic upswing, with per capita GDP nearly doubling, a testament to the efficacy of his implemented social, tax, and economic reforms. Beyond fiscal prudence, Vassiliou's vision extended to the crucial realm of education. He was the driving force behind the establishment of the University of Cyprus in 1989, which was officially inaugurated in 1992, cultivating an environment for critical thinking and academic excellence. Furthermore, his administration initiated the Cyprus Institute and took the bold step of dismantling the state monopoly on broadcast media, thereby championing freedom of expression. He also abolished the controversial practice of the police maintaining files on citizens' political affiliations, signalling a commitment to civil liberties.
A staunch proponent of a bizonal, bicommunal federal structure for Cyprus, Vassiliou dedicated considerable diplomatic capital to resolving the island's enduring partition. He actively engaged in negotiations, notably participating in the formulation of the Ghali Set of Ideas and discussions surrounding territorial readjustments, demonstrating a persistent commitment to achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace. His approach to tourism was also forward-thinking; he imposed a moratorium on unchecked hotel and property development, advocating instead for a focus on quality tourism that would preserve the island's natural and cultural heritage.
The funeral service, attended by a constellation of prominent figures, underscored Vassiliou's national importance. Current President Nikos Christodoulides led the tributes, alongside Giorgos Gerapetritis, the Greek Foreign Minister, representing Athens. Notably, Tufan Erhürman, a prominent Turkish Cypriot leader, was also present, a symbolic gesture acknowledging Vassiliou's efforts towards intercommunal reconciliation. His wife, Androulla Vassiliou, a former European Commissioner, shared a heartfelt tribute: "After two years of suffering, my beloved George, my life partner of 59 years, passed away peacefully in our arms at Nicosia General. It is difficult to say goodbye to this man who was an exceptional husband and father, a man full of kindness and love for his country and people."
George Vassiliou’s legacy is that of a transformative leader who steered Cyprus through a period of significant economic reform and laid crucial groundwork for its future development. His commitment to a unified, federal Cyprus, coupled with his progressive domestic policies, has cemented his place as one of the island's most influential statesmen. His passing represents the end of an era, but the foundations he laid, particularly in education and the pursuit of peace, will undoubtedly continue to shape the nation's destiny.