AHI Mourns the Passing of Former President of the Republic of Cyprus George Vassiliou
(l-r) Ambassador Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis, Gene Rossides, James Marketos, George Vassiliou and Nick Larigakis on September 13, 2001 at the Hellenic House in Washington, D.C.
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WASHINGTON, DC — The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) mourns the passing of George Vassiliou, former President of the Republic of Cyprus, a distinguished statesman, and a steadfast advocate for Cyprus’s European future. Dr. Vassiliou passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 94.
George Vassiliou served Cyprus with vision, integrity, and unwavering dedication at pivotal moments in its modern history. As President of the Republic of Cyprus from 1988 to 1993, he led important economic reforms, strengthened democratic institutions, and advanced efforts toward reconciliation and peace. His presidency also laid the groundwork for Cyprus’s long-term strategic orientation toward Europe.
Following his presidency, Dr. Vassiliou continued his service as Chief Negotiator for Cyprus’s Accession to the European Union, a role in which he played a decisive part in securing Cyprus’s place within the European family. His leadership during the accession negotiations reflected his deep belief that Cyprus’s future lay in democratic governance, economic cooperation, and adherence to European principles.
AHI had the privilege of hosting President George Vassiliou at a dinner at the Madison Hotel in 1988, and again in 2001 at the Hellenic House in Washington, D.C., during his tenure as Chief Negotiator for Cyprus’s accession to the European Union. Throughout his presidency and the early 2000s, Dr. Vassiliou maintained a constructive and respectful relationship with AHI leadership, including longtime AHI founder Gene Rossides, sharing a common commitment to U.S.–Cyprus relations.
“George Vassiliou was a principled leader and a thoughtful interlocutor,” AHI President Nick Larigakis noted. “He understood the strategic importance of engaging policymakers, civil society, and the diaspora in shaping a secure a European future for Cyprus.”
Beyond his public offices, George Vassiliou will be remembered as a pragmatic reformer, an internationalist, and a tireless advocate for dialogue. His legacy endures in Cyprus’s economic development, its European Union membership, and the institutions he helped build and strengthen.
The American Hellenic Institute extends its deepest condolences to his wife Androulla Vassiliou, children, and to the people of Cyprus.
American Hellenic Institute (AHI) is a respected and independent nonprofit, public policy and advocacy center that works to strengthen relations between the United States and Greece and Cyprus, and within the Greek American community.
