Damascus, (SANA) – Former Chancellor of Germany Gerhard Schroeder received on Wednesday an honorary doctorate from the University of Damascus in honor of his positive stances towards Arab causes and his belief in dialogue between cultures, international cooperation and coexistence.

On this occasion, Schroeder affirmed Syria's right to restore the occupied Golan by international law and according to Security Council resolutions 242 and 338, pointing out to the necessity of finding a solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict and restoring rights.

Schroeder called the international community to prioritize security and stability in the Middle East and maintain the unity of Iraq, stressing that the US administration must end its occupation of Iraq via a timetable for withdrawal and the inclusion of neighboring countries in finding a solution for the situation in Iraq.

Schroeder rejected the policy of isolation, pointing out to the importance of encouraging and supporting mutual understanding between cultures and confronting the voices that incite conflict between civilizations.

The former Chancellor said that Syrian-German relations are generally good, particularly academic and scientific relations, and expressed his belief that academic and scientific exchange between the two countries and between the West and the Arab World forms a base for coexistence.

Schroeder also pointed out to the importance of implementing a just international trade policy that provides all countries with the opportunity to merge in international economy.

For his part, Rector of Damascus University Wael Mualla stated that the university gave Schroeder the honorary doctorate in appreciation of his just stances and courage in supporting international peace and dialogue and his ideals and brave, independent political decisions.

Dean of the Faculty of Law in Damascus University Fouad Deeb affirmed that Gerhard Schroeder has contributed via his distinguished political stances in setting the principles of international laws and higher values, pointing out to Schroeder's constant support of dialogue and coexistence.

Deeb also added that this honorary degree also honors the German people and their political stances that support human rights and reject the policies of hegemony and occupation.

Later, Schroeder signed Arabic-translated copies of his book "Decisions: My Life in Politics" which includes his memoirs. The book was translated into Arabic in association with Sham Holdings.

H. Sabbagh, Mazen