University of Jordan awards Borrell honorary doctorate in international relations

AMMAN — The University of Jordan on Wednesday awarded Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell an honorary doctorate in international relations.

The gesture recognises Borrell's decades of contributions to international diplomacy and his efforts in promoting global peace and security, according to a university statement.

Commenting on the decision, University President Nazir Obeidat said that this honour reflects the university's commitment to recognising global leaders who shape the international landscape. 

"Josep Borrell's leadership and vision place him among the most influential political figures of our time", he added.

In his acceptance speech, Borrell praised Jordan's role in maintaining regional stability.

He paid tribute to His Majesty the late King Hussein and His Majesty King Abdullah for making the Hashemite Monarchy a symbol of unity and progress.

He underlined Jordan's commitment to preserving its sovereignty, promoting social diversity, engaging in regional dialogue and supporting the Palestinian cause.

Turning to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Borrell drew attention to its devastating impact on children, who make up the majority of victims. 

Echoing UNRWA's assessment, he described the situation as "a war on children and their future" and called for urgent accountability and protection of human rights. 

The EU official also stressed the need to counter misinformation and extremism, which undermine efforts to build evidence-based dialogue and sustainable peace.

Borrell underlined the strong partnership between the EU and Jordan and their shared vision for stability and growth in a changing world. 

He reiterated the importance of ending illegal occupations, halting violence against civilians and pursuing impartial accountability as essential steps towards peace. 

He also praised the Kingdom's leadership in advancing the two-state solution and promoting international cooperation for peace.

Commenting on the honour, Borrell expressed pride to receive this honorary doctorate from the University of Jordan, "one of the most prestigious institutions in the Arab world."

Obeidat praised Borrell's global influence and efforts to enhance strategic ties between Europe and the MENA region. 

He also highlighted Borrell's unwavering support for Palestinian self-determination and his advocacy for the resolution of the Palestinian cause through international legitimacy and the two-state solution.

Since its inception 62 years ago, the University of Jordan has awarded honorary doctorates to 20 prominent figures. 

The first was awarded to His Majesty the late King Hussein in 1965 and the most recent, in the field of economics, to Ziad Fariz, former governor of the Central Bank of Jordan, in 2018.