Glafcos Clerides vs Hashim Thaci

Glafcos Clerides was elected President of Cyprus, defeating incumbent George Vassiliou. His election marked a shift in Cypriot politics, with Clerides focusing on reunification talks and European Union accession.

Clerides' government formally began accession negotiations with the European Union, a key goal of his presidency. The process aimed to integrate Cyprus into the EU, providing economic benefits and a framework for reunification.

Clerides engaged in UN-sponsored negotiations with Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denkta

Clerides signed the Treaty of Accession to the European Union in Athens, securing Cyprus's entry into the EU. The treaty was signed on behalf of the entire island, though the Turkish Cypriot north was not under his control.

Clerides was defeated in the presidential election by Tassos Papadopoulos, who opposed the Annan Plan. His loss ended his presidency, but he remained active in politics as a elder statesman until his death in 2013.

Thaci was a founding member of the KLA, which launched an armed insurgency against Serbian rule in Kosovo. He became a key political and military leader during the conflict.

Thaci, as KLA political representative, signed the Rambouillet Agreement. The agreement's rejection by Serbia led to NATO intervention and the eventual withdrawal of Serbian forces from Kosovo.

Thaci became Prime Minister after Kosovo's declaration of independence. He led the government during the early years of state-building and international recognition.

Thaci was indicted by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague for crimes against humanity and war crimes, including murder and torture, allegedly committed during the Kosovo War. He resigned as president to face trial.