Opening Day!

What a day! Woke up totally bleary eyed and had to get right to work. As soon as we walked into the opening session, we learned about the situation with the aid boat in Gaza. Discussion of this tragedy colored the presentations for the entire day. But surprisingly, even though we are in an Arab country with primarily Arab participants, many advised that the peace process cannot be derailed. Many panelists said that they are sick of talking about the "peace process" and want to finally see peace.

To my satisfaction, the President of Finland spoke adamantly about the need to include women in the plans about enriching the Middle East's economic future. Several others spoke of the future as being one that will embrace a "bottom up" approach. More reinforcement that the School of Peace Studies is on the right track with its focus on community and civil society.

Queen Rania of Jordan attended the opening session. Far be it from me to be totally superficial, but she is GORGEOUS! Check out below:

Okay, I barely know my name. Off to bed...