Wednesday February 29, 2012

I've Been Thinking:

Queen Rania of Jordan recently called Asma Assad, the wife of Bashar Assad, President of Syria.

The Queen of Jordan called asked about the situation in Syria and said that she hoping the life of the wife of the president was not in jeopardy.

Asma responded by saying that "our situation is excellent and we have no concerns." Asma then said to Rania of Jordan "but we have heard worrying reports from your country and wish to make sure that you are doing ok."

Asma Assad is British born and educated and spent time at Kings College. Before marrying Assad she worked for the Deutsche Bank and for JP Morgan.

Rania was born in Palestine, in the city of Tulkarm. She was educated at the New English school in Kuwait and the American University in Cairo. Before her marriage she worked for Citibank and for Apple.

The phone conversation was reported by the British Arabic Daily Al Quds and the source was a Jordanian contact.

This conversation highlights some important points. A stoic attitude and stiff upper lip are part of the role female leadership assumes in this part of the world. And Asma has not left the country and has no plans to do so - which means she really does feel secure in Syria.

Most telling of all is that Asma Assad does not feel the need to seek refuge next door - and actually voices her concern over the volatile situation in Jordan and feels comfortable enough to speak of her concerns for the well being of the Jordanian queen.

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