Itongadol.- President Shimon Peres was honored at a special plenary session of the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Friday. Peres received the Spirit of Davos award from WEF founder and Chairman Klaus Schwab in recognition of his contribution to the cause of peace, to economics and technology and to the spirit of Davos.
Before receiving his award, Peres participated in a short question and answer session with Schwab, responding to inquiries about Iran, peace negotiations with the Palestinians, and Syria.
"Iran is not an enemy," Peres said in response to a question about Iran\’s seriousness in developing nuclear weapons. "We are not historically hostile, we don\’t share border. I don\’t see reason to spend so much money in name of hatred."
Peres also spoke about hope for peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
"There are difficulties, but neither of us has another choice. Terrorism is killing the Arab world, and Israel offers, in real terms, sincere peace."
Peres also suggested a two-element solution of science and the young generation to end the ongoing conflict in Syria.
"The solution to Syria will come from within because outside parties are not looking for solution," he added. "We can help, but not be major players. The Arab world must support the new generation in Syria to save the land."
In addition to addressing international areas of conflict, Peres also spoke about his vision for a more humanitarian role for science in the future.
"The new goal and spirit of science is to be more humane, to make people richer in human capacity, not just to make money," he said.
Peres was lauded by Schwab for his "vision, soul, values, heart, and his compassion, which he has shown again and again." Schwab added, "You are the oldest participant [of the WEF] on paper but in your mind one of youngest participants."
In response to receiving a bell-shaped award with the inscription "for tolling the bell of peace and harmony," Peres said, "We have to use it, not just to keep it."
Peres, who described himself as a "dissatisfied optimist," said that he plans on continuing to work after his retirement from public life on July 27 of this year.
One of the most high powered gatherings in the world, the WEF founded in 1971, brings together some 2,500 heads of state and government along with business leaders, entrepreneurs, reporters for financial publications plus a few celebrities who want to rub shoulders with people who affect change in the world. That’s what the spirit of Davos is all about – change.