There are so many misperceptions and stereotypes out there that I would love to see clarified one day.

I really feel that political will is born out of popular will.

A woman caring for her children; a woman striving to excel in the private sector; a woman partnering with her neighbors to make their street safer; a woman running for office to improve her country - they all have something to offer, and the more our societies empower women, the more we receive in return.

The job description for a queen changes with the times.

We always say Jordan is not rich in natural resources - we don't have oil or gas like some of our neighbors do - but I think in terms of human resources, we are quite lucky and we are really trying to foster an environment of innovation and technology. I think Jordan will emerge as a center of innovation in the Middle East.

My role models are people who can do things; I say to myself, 'I wish I could do that.'

To achieve a lasting peace in the Middle East takes guts, not guns.