CPDC Pays Tribute to Former President George Vassiliou

Cyprus Peace and Dialogue Centre (CPDC) Pays Tribute to Former President George Vassiliou — Message Conveyed from Mr Mustafa Akıncı at Funeral Service

The Cyprus Peace and Dialogue Centre (CPDC) expresses profound sorrow at the passing of former Greek Cypriot leader, George Vassiliou, a public figure widely recognised for his integrity, European vision, and long-standing commitment to dialogue and a peaceful settlement in Cyprus.

CPDC representatives attended the funeral service held on Saturday, 17 January 2026, at the Church of Ayia Sophia in Strovolos, where Dr Meltem Onurkan Samani, Founder and General Coordinator of CPDC, delivered brief remarks and conveyed a condolence message from former Turkish Cypriot leader Mr Mustafa Akıncı.

In her remarks, Dr Onurkan Samani emphasised that the loss is deeply personal for CPDC, recalling President Vassiliou’s exceptional support—alongside Mr Akıncı—for civic peacebuilding initiatives during a period when hope for progress felt scarce. She noted that the two leaders agreed to support CPDC during its inception phase as honorary leaders, offering encouragement and credibility at a critical moment for bicommunal dialogue.

Dr Onurkan Samani also acknowledged the steady contribution of Androulla Vassiliou and Sophia Vassiliou, whose involvement and solidarity helped strengthen CPDC’s early efforts and affirmed the Vassiliou family’s personal conviction in reconciliation and peaceful dialogue.

In his condolence message, Mr Akıncı described President Vassiliou as one of the few political figures genuinely committed to a reasonable and viable solution to the Cyprus problem. He highlighted the late President’s continued efforts for reunification within a mutually acceptable federal framework, his empathy and commitment to dialogue with Turkish Cypriots, and his modern European outlook.

CPDC extends its deepest condolences to the Vassiliou family and to all those—Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike—who were influenced by President Vassiliou’s example and his belief that Cyprus can move forward through compromise, dignity, and reconciliation.