Merkel receives honorary doctorate in Brussels

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday in Brussels, gown, received an honorary doctorate from the University of Ghent and Leuven.

The academic ceremony was attended by the Belgian Minister Charles Michel and the Flemish Minister Geert Bourgeois. It is the first time award the two largest universities in Flanders an honorary doctorate together, but that is not to the satisfaction of everyone. Right-wing activists stood outside 'not welcome Merkel with banners.

Merkel later Thursday at the Palace hosted by King Philip, and dine with Prime Minister Michel at a secret location in the center of Brussels.