NAMES IN THE NEWS : Honecker Emerges to Greet Envoys
East German leader Erich Honecker emerged today after a long absence due to illness to receive credentials from two new ambassadors, the official East German news agency ADN reported.
The 77-year-old Communist Party chief and head of state has been seen in public just once since early July and had an operation for gallstones Aug. 18. His long absence prompted rumors he was seriously ill and might resign.
ADN said the Turkish and Zimbabwean ambassadors presented their credentials to Honecker at his Council of State headquarters. Western reporters were not allowed to watch the diplomatic ceremony.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
