Science and Technology Minister Ophir Akunis (Likud) took part in laying the cornerstone for Ariel University's new amphitheater today (Sunday).
During the ceremony, Akunis said that "In light of the statements and proposals from the international community, I say here and now in Ariel, the capital of Samaria: We are here and we will remain here. We are building and not removing."
He added, "At first they didn't want Ariel. Then they didn't want a university in Ariel. Now there is a large and important university in the city of Ariel and it is a magnet for students from every region and every religion."