In an exclusive interview with the Media and Public Relations Unit at the University of Jordan (UJ), Dr. Josep Borrell, Vice President of the European Commission and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, expressed his pride in receiving an Honorary Doctorate in International Relations from the University of Jordan.

The honor recognizes his outstanding contributions to international politics and his role in promoting global peace and security through various positions he has held over the past five decades. During the interview, Dr. Borrell shared his insights on diplomacy, international relations, and the significance of this prestigious degree.

What does receiving this honorary degree from the University of Jordan mean to you, personally and professionally?

"I have spent many years teaching. I hold a chair at the university, so everything that comes from academia, especially from a university, is very important to me.

Receiving this honor from the University of Jordan signifies that perhaps I have contributed in some way to bringing rightness to this part of the world."

How do you see this honorary degree as strengthening ties between Jordan and Europe?

"It is a way of creating links. We used to say that Europe has been the birthplace of universities during the Middle Ages.

So, linking universities is a way of linking societies. Being recognized as an honorary doctor by the University of Jordan brings me closer to professors, students, and thinkers of Europe, fostering a deeper connection between Jordan and Europe."

What advice do you have for students who aspire to play a role in international diplomacy and global affairs?

"If you want to study global affairs, you need to be very patient because most of the problems don't have solutions—or they have solutions, but it takes quite a  long time to find and implement them.

The conflicts have been glorified. Look at the Middle East—how many years have passed with conflicts still unresolved? If you want to engage in international affairs, you must understand the dynamics of human beings and be persistent in seeking solutions.”

It is worth noting that the University of Jordan's Council of Deans, upon the recommendation of its President, Prof. Nathir Obeidat, decided to award Dr. Josep Borrell an Honorary Doctorate in International Relations. This decision is based on Article (4/b) of the University of Jordan's Regulations for Granting Academic and Honorary Degrees and Certificates, No. (58) of 1984, issued pursuant to Article (34) of the University of Jordan Bylaw No. (52) of 1972.

Interview conducted by Suha Al Subaihi, Media and Public Relations Unit, the University of Jordan