The Minister of National Defence Dimitris Avramopoulos, before departing from the USA for Greece, made the following statement about the death of the former President of the Republic of Cyprus Glafcos Clerides:
«Today the Greek people must take farewell to one of their greatest and most important leaders in post-World War II history.
Glafcos Clerides’ life and political career are closely related to our Cypriot brothers’ struggle which led to the liberation of their island and the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus.
Close to Archbishop Makarios, he was an architect of the independence of Cyprus’ Republic, as well as a pillar of constitutional legitimacy and peaceful coexistence for the two communities on the island.
Glafcos Clerides departs and we take farewell to him with honour, respect and emotion. He devoted his entire life to defending Cyprus’ rights. He struggled for its independence. He lived the hardest and direst times of modern Cyprus’ history and, as a
President of the Cyprus’ Republic, he held the flag of Cyprus’ struggle high with dignity, strength, prestige and pride.
He was characterised by prudence, wisdom, pragmatism, pure love for our beloved Cyprus and today he “leaves” satisfied that he was a helpful statesman.
All Greeks acknowledge that and we will accompany him to his resting place with respect and recognition of his great contribution. And history justly classifies him among the Pantheon of Great Greeks.
I would like my voice and emotions from America, where I am now, to be united to the ones of the Cypriot brothers and his relatives, his family, who, no matter if Glafcos Clerides deceased full of years, cannot but feel deep sorrow for his death.
I would like to express my warmest condolences to all Cypriot brothers, to all Greeks of Cyprus. We will be honouring him; we will be respecting him and acknowledge his great contribution to the national effort.
Unfortunately he passed away without seeing his own dream, all Greeks’ dream of a united, inseparable and proud Cyprus that will keep its European course in a secure and safe environment, coming true.
This will be our responsibility for the legacy of Glafcos Clerides and a true proof of our gratitude for his invaluable national contribution».