George Vassiliou facts for kids

Quick facts for kids George Vassiliou
Γιώργος Βασιλείου
Vassiliou in 1992
3rd President of Cyprus
In office 28 February 1988 – 28 February 1993
Preceded by	Spyros Kyprianou
Succeeded by	Glafcos Clerides
1st President of United Democrats
In office 1996–2005
Succeeded by	Michalis Papapetrou
Member of the Cypriot House of Representatives
In office 1996–2001
Personal details
Born	(1931-05-20)20 May 1931 Famagusta, British Cyprus
Died	13 January 2026(2026-01-13) (aged 94) Nicosia, Cyprus
Political party	United Democrats (Enomeni Dimokrates)
Spouse	Androulla Vassiliou
Children	3
Alma mater	University of London

George Vassiliou (born May 20, 1931, died January 13, 2026) was an important politician from Cyprus. He served as the President of Cyprus from 1988 to 1993. Before becoming president, he was a very successful businessman. During his time as president, Cyprus saw many good changes. The country's economy grew, and he introduced reforms that helped protect citizens' privacy. He also worked hard to find a peaceful solution for the Cyprus dispute, a long-standing issue for the island.

George Vassiliou's Life and Work

Early Life and Education

George Vassiliou was born on May 20, 1931, in Famagusta, which was then part of British Cyprus. His family was Greek Cypriot. His father was a doctor.

Young George first studied medicine in cities like Geneva and Vienna. Later, he changed his focus to economics. He continued his studies in Hungary and then at the University of London after moving from Hungary in 1956.

In 1962, Mr. Vassiliou came back to Cyprus. He started a business called the Middle East Market Research Bureau. This company helped other businesses and grew to have offices in many parts of the world.

Becoming President

In 1988, George Vassiliou was elected as the President of Cyprus. He ran as an independent candidate. He took over from Spyros Kyprianou.

Key Achievements as President

During his presidency, Cyprus saw a lot of positive changes.

• Economic Growth: The country's economy grew significantly. This meant more jobs and better living conditions for many people.
• Protecting Privacy: He stopped the practice of police keeping records on citizens' political opinions. This helped protect people's privacy and freedom.
• Founding the University of Cyprus: A major achievement was the establishment of the University of Cyprus. This provided more opportunities for young people to get higher education.
• Joining the European Union: In 1991, his government officially applied for Cyprus to join the European Union. This was a big step for the country's future. Cyprus officially joined the EU in 2003.
• Working for Peace: President Vassiliou worked hard to find a peaceful solution to the Cyprus dispute. This is a long-standing issue about the division of the island. Even though a full solution wasn't found during his term, he made efforts towards peace.

He served one term and left office in 1993 after losing the election to Glafcos Clerides.

After the Presidency

After his time as president, George Vassiliou remained active in politics. He founded a new political group and later became the leader of the United Democrats party until 2005.

One of his most important roles after being president was serving as the Chief Negotiator for Cyprus to join the European Union. From 1998 to 2003, he played a key part in the talks that led to Cyprus becoming a member of the EU in 2004.

Beliefs and International Work

George Vassiliou strongly believed in European unity. He thought that European countries should work closely together.

He also participated in many international groups and events. These groups often focused on important social and political issues around the world.

Family Life

George Vassiliou was married to Androulla Vassiliou since 1966. They had three children together.

Later Years and Passing

In his later years, Mr. Vassiliou wrote books about his life. He shared his experiences before and during his time as president.

George Vassiliou passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 94. He had been in the hospital due to a respiratory infection.

Awards and Honours

George Vassiliou received many important awards from different countries for his work and contributions. These included:

• From  Malta: The National Order of Merit.
• From  Cyprus: The Order of Merit.
• From  France: The National Order of the Legion of Honour.
• From  Greece: The Order of the Redeemer.
• From  Italy: The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.
• From  Portugal: The Order of Prince Henry.
• From  Egypt: The Order of the Nile.

See also

In Spanish: Giórgos Vasileíou para niños