Israeli foreign minister visits UCLA
Shimon Peres to speak about Middle East, receive medal
By Gil Hopenstand
Daily Bruin Senior Staff
Marking an important stop during his 12-day tour of the United
States, Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres will address an
estimated crowd of over 1,000 UCLA administrators, faculty, guests
and students today.
As Israel’s current foreign minister and former prime minister,
Peres played a major role in establishing non-aggressive ties with
the nation’s Arab neighbors. His visit will focus on the present
political situation in the Middle East and the potential for new
American economic ventures there.
Israeli consulate officials said the U.S. trip is also an
opportunity for Peres to meet with his supporters, including
entertainers, politicians and the public in general.
At the event Peres also will be presented the UCLA Medal, the
university’s highest honor. Past recipients of the prominent award
include current Secretary of State Warren Christopher, Polish
President Vaclav Havel and, most recently, President Bill
Clinton.
Peres’ other Southland stops include the opening of the Israeli
Film Festival, a local Jewish synagogue and a visit with former
President Ronald Reagan.
During his stay in Washington, Peres met with Clinton and
Jordanian officials to finalize peace treaty issues. He also
established low-level diplomatic ties with Morocco and Tunisia,
consulate officials said.
During his more than 30-year tenure as a member of the Israeli
Parliament, Peres held several key positions dealing with the
nation’s defense and security. He has authored several books on
political affairs and the Middle East.
The lecture will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the Ackerman Grand
Ballroom, but attendees are advised to arrive by 2:30 p.m. UCLA
political science Professor Dick Rosecrance will moderate the
question and answer period after the speech.
Free tickets have been available at the Central Ticket Office
since Oct. 3.