Cyprus Bids Farewell to Former President Giorgos Vassiliou

Cyprus is in mourning following the passing of former President Giorgos Vassiliou, who died at the age of 94. The funeral was held at public expense with honors befitting a head of state at the Church of Holy Wisdom in Strovolos, attended by top officials, including Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis. The coffin was transported with military escort, and the family received condolences from friends and relatives. The presence of the T/C leader, Tufan Erhurman, was particularly noteworthy, as he offered his condolences to the Vassiliou family, demonstrating a gesture of peaceful coexistence. This move was recognized as a positive sign at a time when relations between the two communities remain sensitive. The funeral service was conducted with due solemnity, followed by honorary volleys at the burial in the Aglantzia Municipal Cemetery. The mourning event drew the attention of Cypriot society and international observers. The loss of Giorgos Vassiliou marks the end of an era for Cyprus, as he was a significant figure in the country's political history. His legacy is expected to be discussed and analyzed for years to come.