Three days of mourning for Zeta Emilianidou

Cyprus announced on Wednesday a 3-day mourning period over the death of Labour Minister Zeta Emilianidou who passed away on Monday, after suffering a brain aneurysm mid-May.

She will be laid to rest on Friday and the eulogy will be delivered by President Nicos Anastasiades.

The President chaired a Cabinet meeting today during which decisions were taken on how to honor the late Minister who served in Anastasiades’ administration from 2013 until her death.

The Cabinet observed a minute's silence in her honor.

The decisions were announced by Government Spokesperson Marios Pelekanos who said that from today until her funeral on Friday, the flags will be flying half-mast in all governmental services buildings. All state activities are postponed and members of the administration will not be attending any public activities.

The spokesperson said that a book of condolences will be opened at the Labour Ministry until Friday. It will be signed by the President of the Republic, the members of the Cabinet, the deputy ministers, the government spokesman and deputy government spokeswoman and the head of the President’s office tomorrow morning.

The Minister’s body will be laid for public viewing before Friday's funeral at Agia Sofia church in Strovolos.

Arrangements can be made by public servants, teachers and National Guard members to attend the funeral if they wish.

Before the Ministerial meeting, the Ministers were asked by the press to say a few words about the late Minister and they all praised her efficiency, professionalism, ethos and principles.

Justice Minister Stephie Dracos said that the late Minister was an efficient and excellent lady and a role model for all female politicians. She was also a good friend and a good human being, she said. Dracos said that she will be remembered for her service adding that she deserved the love she received from all the people.

Finance Minister Constantinos Petrides said that they were bonded with a friendship, adding that Emilianidou was competent, she had dignity and was selfless and her memory is eternal.

Minister of Agriculture Costas Kadis said that he was devastated over the loss of Emilianidou adding that he will remember her compassion, her effectiveness and her years of friendship.

Interior Minister Nicos Nouris said that everyone’s reaction to her death demonstrates her ethos, her qualities and values and her contribution to the country.

White flowers, a candle and a photo were set in the place of Zeta Aimilianidou during the meeting of the Council of Ministers today.