Hebrew University of Jerusalem to award honorary doctorate to German Chancellor Merkel

Hebrew University of Jerusalem to award honorary doctorate to German Chancellor Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is to receive an honorary doctorate of philosophy from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem next month during her visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, a university statement said.

It said that Merkel, who is also scheduled to visit Jordan and Lebanon during her March 31 to April 2 Middle East tour, is to be honored by the university "in recognition of her lifelong dedication to the principles of democracy and in appreciation of her warm and constant friendship for the people and State of Israel."

As part of the April 1 award ceremony, Merkel, who earned her own doctorate in physics in Leipzig, Germany, will deliver a public address, the statement said, reports AP.