In a festive ceremony, Tel Aviv University will award an honorary doctorate to the Canadian Prime Minister Mr. Stephen Harper. The degree will be awarded during his state visit to Israel on Wednesday, 21 Shevat 5774.

In its media release, Tel Aviv U. officials state, “Mr. Stephen Harper will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy for his exemplary conduct as a prominent world leader who promotes freedom, human rights and the rule of law; for his efforts to advance higher education; for his open and fundamental support of the State of Israel both as a private individual and as Prime Minister of Canada, and for his active and brave participation in the struggle against anti-Semitism and other forms of extremism.

“Mr. Harper has served as Prime Minister of Canada since 2006. Since Mr. Harper entered office, his government has promoted strict laws relating to public accountability; reduced personal and company taxation to the lowest level for forty years; introduced reforms in the criminal justice system; and strengthened Canada’s international reputation as a reliable ally in the defense of freedom, democracy and human rights.

“Prime Minister Harper is an honorary member of the International Raoul Wallenberg Foundation, a non-governmental organization named after the Swedish diplomat who saved the lives of tens of thousands of Jews in World War II. The Foundation develops educational programs and campaigns to raise public awareness, based on the values of civil courage and fellowship –moral characteristics associated with the man who came to the aid of Jews during the Holocaust.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)