With the advent of its third Congress in Tunis, the Arab Women Organisation has undoubtedly gained in scope and maturity. In her opening address, Tunisia's First Lady has laid down the Congress's strategic choices giving further impetus to the Organisation's action, while insisting on the importance of taking practical decisions to further empower Arab women. Many of the participants pointed out that, during her term as AWO's President, Mrs. Ben Ali has greatly contributed to the Organisation's stature, not only in the Arab world but also on the regional and international scene. Reactions in the Arab and international media continue to pour as the Congress is holding its third and final day tomorrow, Saturday 30. True, women's expectations throughout the Arab world are high, but so was the level and quality of the panels that took place today, heralding a number of long awaited decisions tomorrow. (For reactions, see page 2)
