SYDNEY, Australia (JTA) — Australia’s former prime minister was awarded an honorary doctorate by Hebrew University.
John Howard, whose Liberal Party was in power from 1996 to 2007, received the award in Sydney on Sunday night for his "remarkable support" for Israel. Hebrew University president Menachem Magidor and Charles Goodman, the chair of the board of governors, traveled to Australia for the gala dinner.
The award recognizes Howard’s "outstanding statesmanship and leading role on the world stage in promoting democracy and combating international terrorism."
After receiving the award, Howard told the 300 guests he had "no doubt" the attacks in Mumbai were a warning to U.S. President-elect Barack Obama.
Goodman and Magidor also signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Melbourne for academic cooperation.
Dvir Abramovich, the director of the Centre for Jewish History and Culture, said at the time the initiative was first discussed, “This multifaceted agreement is a milestone. It will enrich both universities, expanding opportunities for both students and faculty and fostering cross-cultural learning and the exchange of knowledge and ideas."
The University of Sydney also has an agreement with Hebrew University, which encourages mutual visits by academic staff.
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