Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - Jordan has made stride in women empowerment as they were able to assume leadership roles in politics and business as well education, said United States Ambassador to Jordan, Alice G. Wells.

Addressing University of Jordan students, the ambassador said Jordan’s Cabinet now includes five women, which means Jordan has one of the highest numbers of female cabinet members in the Arab world.

She added that women are making their mark on Jordan’s elected bodies too as eighteen women now serve as MPs, three of whom won seats outside the quota. Women now comprise 36 percent of municipal council members, far exceeding the 25 percent quota.

"Jordanian women have emerged as leaders and visionaries not only at all levels of government, but also in business, media, and civil society. Their example stands as an inspiration for the next generation," the ambassador noted.

She stressed that the U.S. Embassy is committed to partnering with the government and civil society to expand women’s opportunities to participate fully and actively in politics at every level.

Wells emphasized that the Government of Jordan can send strong messages about the importance of women by following through on its public commitments and appointing visible female role models.

She applauded the government’s nomination of a record five female ministers to the new Cabinet, and welcome the opportunity to work with them.

She said the establishment of the Jordanian National Commission for Women was an important step in promoting women’s rights. It is vitally important that the Commission has sufficient resources to fully accomplish its goals.