Cyprus bids farewell today to former President George Vassiliou, who died aged 94, with a funeral at public expense and the honours of a serving head of state.
Top officials will attend including Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, who will deliver a eulogy.
The body will be transferred this morning to the Church of Divine Wisdom in Strovolos on a gun carriage, accompanied by the Police Band.
The family will receive condolences at the church from 11:30 am, with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm.
Eulogies will also be delivered by President Nikos Christodoulides, University of Cyprus Rector Tasos Christofides, Michalis Papapetrou on behalf of Vassiliou’s associates, and Vassiliou’s son Evelthon Vassiliou. Burial will take place at Aglantzia Municipal Cemetery with honourary gun salutes.
A public vigil took place on Friday at the same church in an atmosphere of deep emotion. Crowds of colleagues and ordinary citizens of all ages attended to pay tribute, leaving flowers and writing touching words in the condolences book.
Averof Moritsis, Vassiliou’s driver for 26 years, called him a “second father” and a “gentleman”, whilst many citizens praised his character, modesty and modernising work.
Androulla Vassiliou appeared devastated but proud of her husband’s legacy. She said she had lost “a man with all capital letters, a companion in the literal sense of the word”.
Vassiliou said the former president “left with the pain of reunification”, as until his last moment his concern and vision remained a Cyprus solution. She expressed hope that the democratic principles and unity he championed would not be lost.
(information from CNA)
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