The Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhürman, has expressed his sincere condolences following the death of George Vassiliou, former President of the Republic of Cyprus, highlighting a moment of respect that transcends the island’s long-standing division.

In a post shared on social media, Erhürman said he was informed “with deep sadness” of the passing of the former Greek Cypriot leader. His message was published in both Greek and Turkish.

“I express my sincere condolences, first and foremost to his family and to the entire Greek Cypriot community, and I wish them strength and courage,” Erhürman wrote.

George Vassiliou, who served as President of Cyprus from 1988 to 1993, played a key role during a critical period in the island’s modern political history. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes and condolence messages from across the political spectrum, both in Cyprus and abroad.