Glafcos Clerides is an emblematic figure for Cyprus. His life is closely intertwined with the political history of Cyprus. He worked tirelessly for the resolution of the Cyprus issue from various posts. During his term as President of the Republic of Cyprus, he prepared and led Cyprus to the threshold of the European Union. Unfortunately, he did not live to see Cyprus unified, as he died on the 30th anniversary of the declaration of the pseudo-state.
I express deep condolences to his family, as well as to the Cypriot people, to whom he dedicated his life.
The best way to honor the memory of Glafcos Clerides is to achieve, at long last, a just and practicable solution to the Cyprus issue. A solution in line with the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the high-level agreements. A solution compatible with the European acquis. A solution that allows all the citizens of the Republic of Cyprus – Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots – to live in an environment that is institutionally just, European, stable and functional. In a member state of the UN and the EU, with a single international legal personality and a single citizenship. In a country regaining its dynamic economic role in the Eastern Mediterranean and becoming a land of prosperity and progress for all its citizens.
November 15, 2013