UFU rector meets with Austrian presidential advisor

VIENNA - Dr. Leonid Rudnytzky, rector of the Ukrainian Free University and visiting professor for Ukrainian literature at the University of Vienna, on June 12 presented his new book "Ivan Franko and German Literature" to Austrian Federal President Thomas Klestil. In the absence of the president, who was taken to the hospital with a touch of pneumonia, Dr. Rudnytzky was received by Ambassador Turck, a close advisor to the President.

According to the ambassador, President Klestil, who prior to his ascension (1992) to the highest office of the land had served as Austria's ambassador to the U.S. (1978-1987), remembered meeting Dr. Rudnytzky at a conference of ambassadors held at La Salle University in Philadelphia.

Upon presentation of the book Ambassador Turck thanked Dr. Rudnytzky on behalf of the president and, following an extensive conversation on Austrian history, Austro-Ukrainian relations and the state of Ukrainian studies, escorted the rector through the Leopoldine Wing of the Imperial Palace, which houses the presidential offices, explaining the origin and significance of each hall.

In expressing his gratitude for the warm and cordial reception, Dr. Rudnytzky stated that his father was an officer in the Austrian Imperial Army and that he had told his young son about the marvels of Vienna. He thanked his host for enabling him to appreciate more fully the significance of a bygone era that is an integral part of Ukraine's history.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, July 27, 2003, No. 30, Vol. LXXI

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