Former PM Johnson becomes honorary doctor of Lviv University

The academic council of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv awarded the title of Doctor Honoris Causa to the former Prime Minister of Great Britain, Boris Johnson.

The press service of the educational institution reports this on Facebook:

"On October 4, 2022, the Academic Council of the Lviv University awarded the title of Doctor Honoris Causa of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv to the Prime Minister of Great Britain (2019-2022) Boris Johnson," the statement said.

The university also reported that the British politician had previously given his official consent to become part of the academic community of Lviv University.

"Boris Johnson is not one of the first, but actually the first of the world leaders to take a firm and unambiguous position regarding the fact that Ukraine is an independent state, and russia is an aggressor," stated Rector Volodymyr Melnyk. "The position of Boris Johnson and his visit to Ukraine ultimately led to such large-scale consolidation regarding Europe opposing the russian aggressor as something that destroys all the norms of civilization in Ukraine and the world," the rector stated, adding that it was on the initiative of Boris Johnson that tremendous military aid was and still is provided to Ukraine.

Serhii Riznyk, Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work and International Cooperation, outlining the importance of the figure of the British politician for history, noted that Boris Johnson is a figure of a global scale, has powerful authority, and remains a great friend of the Ukrainian people.

"Although even without the post of Prime Minister, Boris Johnson remains one of the most popular and influential politicians in Great Britain. At the same time, we intend to award Boris Johnson the title of Honorary Doctor not because he is influential today, but because we are sincerely grateful for his contribution to Ukraine's defense capability and highly appreciate his attitude towards Ukrainians," Serhii Riznyk said, adding that Lviv University, awarding Boris Johnson with the title Doctor Honoris Causa, demonstrates "the same act of mutual respect and friendship, shows that we are also with him in good times and in difficult times."

In addition, Johnson expressed hope to visit LNU soon. "I am proud that as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, I could play my modest role in helping Ukraine in the war against the russian aggressor.

And I will continue to do everything in my power to support Ukraine, even after I have already left the office," Johnson emphasized.

Rubryka's Timeline of war: current news on Ukraine's defense against russia's aggression.