JERUSALEM (EJP)—Israeli President Shimon Peres will confer the Presidential Medal of Distinction, Israel’s highest civilian award, on German Chancellor Angela Merkel during her visit in Jerusalem next week.
The medal is being bestowed upon Merkel ‘’for her unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and the fight against anti-Semitism and racism in particular through education.’’
President Peres and the committee gave the following reasons for the award:
“Dr. Angela Merkel, is an exceptional leader with a deep moral conviction and high ideals including in her warm relations with the State of Israel and the Jewish people. Chancellor Merkel sets a wonderful example on education against anti-Semitism, racism and hate and works tirelessly to expand the work being done on these issues with the aim of educating future generations in Germany towards equality, tolerance and acceptance of the other. Chancellor Merkel not only strengthened the diplomatic relations between Israel and Germany but also the security relations. This commitment has been exemplified by the numerous examples of Germany standing absolutely by Israel’s side within the European Union and the firm stance taken by the government against the delegitimization of Israel in the world. Chancellor Merkel placed Germany’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security at the forefront of relations between the two countries. The strategic and security cooperation between Israel and Germany have reached new heights under her leadership. Chancellor Merkel is a leader of vision and foresight, an outstanding personality and she has captured the hearts of the entire world. She is a leader whose values inspire hope and whose actions inspire wonder.”
The special award ceremony will take place next Tuesday at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem in presence of senior figures involved in Israeli-German relations.
After the ceremony, President Peres and Chancellor Merkel will hold a diplomatic working meeting during which they will discuss the negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, the Iranian nuclear program and relations between Israel and Germany.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is due to arrive in Israel on Monday, will be accompanied by her entire cabinet for a high-profile visit that will include the largest bilateral government consultations in Israel’s history.
The trip officially kicks off preparations for next year’s celebration of 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and Germany.