Former President of the Republic Glafcos Clerides, who passed away on Friday, aged 94, lies in state on Monday from 0900 to 1700 local time (0700 – 1500 GMT), at the Holy Church of God’s Wisdom.
The Cyprus Council of Ministers declared on Saturday a three-day official mourning between November 16 and 19, during which flags at all public buildings and schools will fly at half mast.
President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades will deliver the eulogy at Clerides’ funeral, which will take place on Tuesday, at public expense, at the same church and will be attended by the Council of Ministers, the House President Yiannakis Omirou.
A high-level delegation, led by Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, comprising Vice President and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos, Chairman of the Hellenic Parliament Evangelos Meimarakis and Greek Defence Minister Demetris Avramopoulos, will also attend Clerides’ funeral.
Tributes are pouring in from foreign dignitaries and heads of state who have either worked with him or met him during his long political career.
A book of condolences opened today, at the Presidential Palace for Members of the Diplomatic Corps and State Officials.
Books of condolences will open in all Diplomatic Missions of the Republic of Cyprus abroad.
The day of the funeral has been declared a public holiday.
During the period of public mourning, all official events, along with the participation of members of the Government and the officials of the State in public events, have been postponed.
Glafcos Clerides, who served as Cyprus President between 1993 and 2003 and oversaw Cyprus` EU accession course died at 18.20 hrs local time, last Friday.
In his message of condolences European Commission President José Manuel Barroso said Clerides “will be remembered as a true European statesman and the man who worked tirelessly over many decades for the reunification of Cyprus and for the full integration of Cyprus into the European family”.
On his part UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon`s message highlights the fact that Clerides “was known for his strong support for the reunification of Cyprus and for many years played a central role in the UN-facilitated talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement”.
All parliamentary parties in Cyprus and hundreds of people have sent messages of condolences, describing him as “a great leader” and praising his courage.
The media, with banner headlines, are covering the death of the late President with special reports on his life and his contribution to peace in Cyprus and the world at large.