Nov. 4, 2003

Iliescu Receives GW’s President’s Medal

University Presents Romanian Leader with Highest Honor

H.E. Ion Iliescu, the first democratically elected president of Romania, received the University’s highest honor Oct. 27 as he was presented with the GW President’s Medal.

After receiving the medal, Iliescu delivered remarks about Romania’s future, economic development, the war on terrorism, education and most especially, globalization and its impact on the world. He also spoke of Romania’s desire to join the European Union, which could happen in 2007.

Concerning globalization, Iliescu said, “(We) have to respect the diversity of identities and cultures and at the same time, match the needs and expectations shared by the citizens of the planet.”

Iliescu was in Washington for a visit with President George W. Bush.

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