Downing Street: President Clerides contribution to Cyprus was outstanding

The contribution of the late former President of Cyprus Glafcos Clerides to his homeland, Cyprus, has been outstanding throughout his life, stressed Monday a spokesperson of the office of the British Prime Minister has said.

A No 10 spokesperson has said that British PM David Cameron “has expressed his condolences to the people of Cyprus, following the death of former President Clerides and our thoughts are with his family and friends”.

"Mr Clerides was a respected and distinguished statesman. He made an outstanding contribution to Cyprus throughout his life, and set a personal example of courage, wisdom and decency, including his distinguished service in World War II where he fought with the Royal Air Force to keep Europe free from fascism", he concluded.

Glafcos Clerides, who served as Cyprus President between 1993 and 2003, passed away on Friday.

The Cyprus Council of Ministers declared a three-day official mourning until tomorrow, during which flags at all public buildings and schools will be flying at half mast. Today Clerides lies in state.

President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades will deliver the eulogy of Clerides’ funeral which will take place on Tuesday, at public expense, in Nicosia.