German Chancellor Angela Merkel will receive an honorary doctorate from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology in honor of her Israel support, commitment to the fight against antisemitism, and support for science and education, and scientific collaboration between Israel and Germany in particular.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
Merkel, who has a doctorate in natural sciences, published a number of papers on quantum chemistry before entering German politics. Having served as the European country's leader for 16 years, Merkel is set to retire from politics later this month.
Merkel will receive the doctorate at a ceremony in Jerusalem on Sunday.
"Chancellor Merkel's path has taken her from a brilliant scientific career in quantum chemistry to an unparalleled political legacy at a time of tectonic changes starting with the end of the Cold War, the fall of the Soviet Union, and the unification of Germany," said Technion President Professor Uri Sivan.
"Under her leadership, Merkel navigated Europe through a global economic crisis and displayed great humanity to those who were displaced by civil wars and other armed conflicts in the Middle East and Africa.
"As a true leader, constantly striving to improve the lives of millions worldwide, Chancellor Merkel never avoided publicly facing the harsh and uncomfortable realities of global and domestic challenges. She has done so while never forgetting the true meaning of compassion and social responsibility."
Prof. Sivan thanked Chancellor Merkel: "We salute you for what you have given Germany, Israel, and the world. We are forever grateful."
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
