NICOSIA, Jan. 14 (Xinhua) -- Former Cypriot president George Vassiliou died overnight at the age of 94, his family said on Wednesday.
Vassiliou served as president of the Republic of Cyprus from 1988 to 1993. He had been hospitalized since Jan. 6 due to a severe chest infection, the Cyprus Mail reported.
Born in Famagusta in 1931, Vassiliou was an economist and entrepreneur before entering politics. During his presidency, Cyprus recorded solid economic growth and low unemployment, while efforts were made to advance negotiations on the Cyprus issue, according to the report.
After leaving office, Vassiliou remained active in public life and served as chief negotiator for Cyprus' accession to the European Union. ■
