Thursday, June 21, 2018

Italy’s first woman consul general sees a multi-layered, dynamic Saudi society




By Siraj Wahab
sirajwahab@arabnews.com
Published in Arab News on Wednesday, March 8, 2017

She is a rarity in the foreign diplomatic corps in Jeddah. Ever since she arrived in January 2015 for her first foreign posting as Italy’s consul general, Elisabetta Martini has carved a niche for herself and her country through her extraordinary work and outreach efforts. On the eve of International Women’s Day, she spoke to Arab News about the challenges she has faced as a female diplomat, and her observations about Saudi women.

She chose Saudi Arabia as her diplomatic posting “because it was an extremely challenging post, and that was the hook for me. When somebody throws a challenge at me I immediately accept it. When I was asked to apply for foreign posts, I chose Jeddah.”

Martini describes Saudi Arabia as “a very powerful country in terms of natural resources, in terms of being a regional power, a country that maintains the regional balance in the Middle East. Before coming here, I knew of Saudi Arabia as a giant that wasn’t fully awake. It has the potential to become the most powerful country in the region.”

She started her diplomatic career in 2012. She was posted in Rome for two years, where she dealt mostly with European affairs and foreign policy. She graduated in political science and completed her master’s in international relations.

She interned for six months at the Italian Embassy in Washington, DC, while she was doing research for her final thesis at John Hopkins University. The subject of her thesis was the Silk Road. During her time in the US, she was associated with a well-known Italian think tank, the International Affairs Institute (IAI). “That’s when I realized the importance of think tanks,” she said.

From the US, Martini moved to Brussels as the assistant of the representative of the Italian Senate at the European Parliament. “That was an extremely useful experience for me,” she said.

Later, she worked as an export manager for a German design company. “I represented this German firm and I used to sell a lot of their products to mostly Arab clients,” she said. All this experience stood her in good stead. “I got to know the private sector, the powerful role of think tanks and then the public sector,” she said.

In the first week of her arrival in Jeddah, King Abdullah died. “So change started to happen very quickly. That was another challenge for me, because my first public appearance was to give condolences for the death of the late king in the (presence) of the governor of Makkah,” Martini said.

“They were all men. There was a discussion between me and my colleagues, and with other consul generals, about how I should be dressed, how I should look… and how I should behave when paying condolences (here). At the same time, it was my first public appearance.” She said she covered her head out of respect for local traditions. “That really went well.”

On how challenging it is for a female diplomat in a country where women are not the predominant force in public life, she said: “It’s difficult for women, not just a female diplomat, all over the world, not just in Saudi Arabia. In my country, when I deal with my own people as myself and not as a diplomat, I support women’s rights. Everyone should give this contribution to the development of his or her own country.

“However, one shouldn’t interfere in the policies of other countries. In Italy, there’s a top-down policy that tries to push women into key areas. Women around the world have to work from the bottom up, instead of top-down.”

She said people in Italy are surprised to know that she is the consul general in Jeddah.

Regarding Saudi women, Martini said she has seen a lot of changes. “When I came here, I was a bit surprised because the American consul general was a lady before me. The British consul general was a lady some years ago. The German consul general was a lady, so I wasn’t the first lady in the diplomatic service here. The difference was that I was young, so I had to prove myself.

“Women are more critical toward other women because we know how much we have to fight and struggle for something. But when you see someone has made it to the top, you ask how she achieved it. Maybe because she’s the daughter of an ambassador? They try to belittle your success.”

Martini said she has interacted with a lot of women here. “Saudi Arabia isn’t one Saudi Arabia. There are different layers of society. There’s a big difference between the various classes of society. Some women who come from opened-minded families don’t have to face any problem. There are women who participate in municipal elections and civic activities.

“But there are some women who face lot of issues. So there are different layers. There are some women in Saudi Arabia who are more qualified than me and can do whatever job they want. Their fathers, husbands and brothers admire them. It’s amazing. But others have to struggle a lot.”

As a diplomat, did she encounter conservatives in the Kingdom, and if so how did she deal with it? “In Saudi Arabia, people recognize authority. They have a very strong sense of authority. They might say ‘you’re a lady and young,’ but they know I represent Italy in Jeddah. They have a strong respect for the state. So as far as I’m the consul general, they respect me. Everyone meets with me in a very respectful way.

“So far, I’ve never met someone who refused to shake my hand. I found Saudis super welcoming. I’m always being welcomed to their houses for big and intimate gatherings. They try to make me feel at ease.”

About women journalists in Saudi Arabia, Martini said: “It’s very important to encourage female journalists because it’s very important to have their point of view. They’ll always have a different point of view. Only they can understand their issues well.”

She said in advanced countries, women do not want to celebrate International Women’s Day as they have already reached gender equality. “But for me, this occasion reminds us of the importance of women in society. We need to push the role of professional women in the world. We’re the other 50 percent of society. My message to women is not to rely on the fact that they’re women. They must think of themselves first and foremost as human beings, and go ahead in life.”

33 comments:

Urgent Loan said...

Hello Everybody,
My name is Mrs Sharon Sim. I live in Singapore and i am a happy woman today? and i told my self that any lender that rescue my family from our poor situation, i will refer any person that is looking for loan to him, he gave me happiness to me and my family, i was in need of a loan of $250,000.00 to start my life all over as i am a single mother with 3 kids I met this honest and GOD fearing man loan lender that help me with a loan of $250,000.00 SG. Dollar, he is a GOD fearing man, if you are in need of loan and you will pay back the loan please contact him tell him that is Mrs Sharon, that refer you to him. contact Dr Purva Pius,via email:(urgentloan22@gmail.com) Thank you.

Asif said...

I've been looking for info on this topic for a while. I'm happy this one is so great. Keep up the excellent work. if there is someone who need SEO Services in Saudi then try our service.

Tyler Worgan said...

When you have to take help for the essay writing then always take help from the experts and professionals. You can take help from saudi-arabia.customessaywritingservices.com for the perfect work.

OFFER said...

Invest with 200$ and get a returns of 5,000$ within seven business working days.Why wasting your precious time online looking for a loan? When there is an opportunity for you to invest with 200$ and get a returns of 5,000$ within seven business working days. Contact us now for more information if interested on how you can earn big with just little amount. This is all about investing into Crude Oil and Gas Business.

Email: investmoneyoilgasfast@gmail.com
whatsap : +918931919635

devicejazz said...

We are providing  Zcash to USD calculator Check online price value to usd calculator service to check online price value. So, visit this site and estimate your zcash price in dollar or any other currency and exchange in cash using paypal or any other account.

Yanne Tamehe said...

Are you tired of seeking loans and Mortgages, have you been turned down constantly By your banks and other financial institutions,We offer any form of loan to individuals and corporate bodies at low interest rate. If you are interested in taking a loan, feel free to contact us today, We promise to offer you the best services ever. Just give us a try, because a trial will convince you.What are your Financial needs?Do you need a business loan?Do you need a personal loan?Do you want to buy a car?Do you want to refinance?Do you need a mortgage loan?Do you need a huge capital to start off your business proposal or expansion? Have you lost hope and you think there is no way out, and your financial burdens still persists? Contact us (infoloanfirm247@gmail.com)

musasizi nancy said...

HOW I GOT MY LOAN FROM THIS GREAT COMPANY CALLED CARROL WALKER LOAN COMPANY

Hello to All across the globe, I am Martha Loiussa, currently living in JAPAN now. I am a widow at the moment with 2 kids and I was stuck in a financial situation in march 2019 and I needed to refinance and pay my bills. I tried seeking loans from various loan firms both private and corporate but never with success, and most banks declined my credit ,do not fall prey to those hoodlums out there that call them self money lender most of them are scam , all they want is your money and you will not hear from them again they have done it to me twice before I meet MRS CARROL WALKER the most interesting part of it is that my loan was transfer to me within 24hours so I will advice you to contact MRS CARROL WALKER if you are interested in getting loan and you are sure you can pay him back on time you can contact him via email……… (infoloanfirm8@gmail.com No credit check, no co signer with just 3% interest rate and better repayment plans and schedule if you must contact any firm with reference to securing a loan without collateral then contact MRS CARROL WALKER today for your loan

Ahmed89 said...

DO YOU NEED A LOAN : TRUST ME WE CAN SOLVE YOUR FINANCE PROBLEM
Do you need Personal Loan?
Business Cash Loan?
Unsecured Loan
Fast and Simple Loan?
Quick Application Process?
Approvals within 24-72 Hours?
No Hidden Fees Loan?
Funding in less than 1 Week?
Get unsecured working capital?
Contact Us At : ahmedconsultancycompany@gmail.com
Phone number :+1 516-591-0949 (Whatsapp Only)

LOAN SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE:
================================
*Commercial Loans.
*Personal Loans.
*Business Loans.
*Investments Loans.
*Development Loans.
*Acquisition Loans .
*Construction loans.
*Credit Card Clearance Loan
*Debt Consolidation Loan
*Business Loans And many More:

LOAN APPLICATION FORM:
=================
Full Name:................
Loan Amount Needed:.
Purpose of loan:.......
Loan Duration:..
Gender:.............
Marital status:....
Location:..........
Home Address:..
City:............
Country:......
Phone:..........
Mobile / Cell:....
Occupation:......
Monthly Income:....

Contact Us At : ahmedconsultancycompany@gmail.com
Phone number :+1 516-591-0949 (Whatsapp Only)

Doris Susan said...

My name is Doris Susan from Germany, I contacted Mrs Carroll Walker Company for a business loan amount of $40,000. Then i was told about the step of approving my requested loan amount, after taking the risk again because i was so much desperate of setting up a business to my greatest surprise, the loan amount was credited to my bank account within 24 banking hours without any stress of getting my loan. I was surprise because i was first fall a victim of scam! If you are interested of securing any loan amount & you are located in any country, I'll advise you can contact Mrs. Carroll Walker Company via email: Contact him through the email . infoloanfirm8@gmail.com

Unknown said...

Are you searching for a very genuine loan at an affordable interest rate of 3% process and approved within 4 working days? Have you been turned down Constantly by your Banks and other financial institutions because of bad credit? Loans ranging from $5000 USD to $20, 000, 000 USD maximum LOANS for Developing business a competitive edge / business expansion. We are certified, trustworthy, reliable, efficient, Fast and dynamic for real estate and any kinds of business financing. Contact us for more details and information.
Thanks & Regard
Call/Whats App 918929509036
(Whats App) 918929509036
Dr James Eric Housing Finance Pvt Ltd
E-mail: financialserviceoffer876@gmail.com

abidinmohd said...

Do you need a genuine Loan to settle your bills and startup
business? contact us now with your details to get a good
Loan at a low rate of 3% per Annual email us:
Do you need Personal Finance?
Business Cash Finance?
Unsecured Finance
Fast and Simple Finance?
Quick Application Process?
Finance. Services Rendered include,
*Debt Consolidation Finance
*Business Finance Services
*Personal Finance services Help
Please write back if interested with our interest rate abidinmohdmostafaloanfirm@gmail.com
Whats App +918929593217

max william said...

Are you looking for finance? Do you need loan for to settle your bills, like personal loan, finance issue, business loan to setup your own business or business expandion, project funding and your financial score is very low, I am able to fund you the amount you need ranging from $1000-$50M and a suitable Interest rates 3% that will makes life easier for you. more info Kindly contact me via email:adamfinancialloanservicess@gmail.com

max william said...

Are you looking for finance? Do you need loan for to settle your bills, like personal loan, finance issue, business loan to setup your own business or business expandion, project funding and your financial score is very low, I am able to fund you the amount you need ranging from $1000-$50M and a suitable Interest rates 3% that will makes life easier for you. more info Kindly contact me via email:adamfinancialloanservicess@gmail.com

Shielabells Parma said...

Are you tired of seeking loans and Mortgages, have you been turned down constantly By your banks and other financial institutions,We offer any form of loan to individuals and corporate bodies at low interest rate. If you are interested in taking a loan, feel free to contact us today, We promise to offer you the best services ever. Just give us a try, because a trial will convince you.What are your Financial needs?Do you need a business loan?Do you need a personal loan?Do you want to buy a car?Do you want to refinance?Do you need a mortgage loan?Do you need a huge capital to start off your business proposal or expansion? Have you lost hope and you think there is no way out, and your financial burdens still persists? Contact us (infoloanfirm8@gmail.com)

Christopher Nissen said...

Do you need an urgent loan today? Are you thinking of clearing debt or you have intentions of starting a new business? We offer loans at low interest of 3% for personal and business purposes! We also offer easy approval and fast transfer as guaranteed by our insurance company. Interested persons should contact Mr Carroll Walker with Email: infoloanfirm8@gmail.com

Micheal james said...

My name is Micheal James from Germany, I contacted Mrs Carroll Walker Company for a business loan amount of $40,000. Then i was told about the step of approving my requested loan amount, after taking the risk again because i was so much desperate of setting up a business to my greatest surprise, the loan amount was credited to my bank account within 24 banking hours without any stress of getting my loan. I was surprise because i was first fall a victim of scam! If you are interested of securing any loan amount & you are located in any country, I'll advise you can contact Mrs. Carroll Walker Company via email: Contact him through the email . infoloanfirm8@gmail.com

Doctor david mike said...

Hi everyone I am Hearry Begi, How i got the right doctor for my kidney donation, I saw comments from people who had already received their donor payment of the sum of $500,000,000 for been a kidney donor and then decided to apply under their advice and a few hours ago I confirmed in my personal bank account a total amount of $500,000 that I had requested for one donation This is really great news and I am advising anyone in need of a real donor to apply through their email (doctordavidmike@gmail.com). I am happy now that I have obtained requested of been a full donor.

Doctor david mike said...

Hi everyone I am Hearry Begi, How i got the right doctor for my kidney donation, I saw comments from people who had already received their donor payment of the sum of $500,000,000 for been a kidney donor and then decided to apply under their advice and a few hours ago I confirmed in my personal bank account a total amount of $500,000 that I had requested for one donation This is really great news and I am advising anyone in need of a real donor to apply through their email (doctordavidmike@gmail.com). I am happy now that I have obtained requested of been a full donor.

Doctor david mike said...

Hi everyone I am Hearry Begi, How i got the right doctor for my kidney donation, I saw comments from people who had already received their donor payment of the sum of $500,000,000 for been a kidney donor and then decided to apply under their advice and a few hours ago I confirmed in my personal bank account a total amount of $500,000 that I had requested for one donation This is really great news and I am advising anyone in need of a real donor to apply through their email (doctordavidmike@gmail.com). I am happy now that I have obtained requested of been a full donor.

financialserviceoffer said...

Do you need Finance? Are you looking for Finance? Are you looking for finance to enlarge your business? We help individuals and companies to obtain finance for business expanding and to setup a new business ranging any amount. Get finance at affordable interest rate of 3%, Do you need this finance for business and to clear your bills? Then send us an email now for more information contact us now via (financialserviceoffer876@gmail.com) whats-App +918929509036 Dr James Eric Finance Pvt Ltd Thanks

Ruth Walls said...

I want to thank Mrs Carroll Walker loan firm for giving me a loan of $37,000.00. If you need a quick loan avoid being scammed by fake lenders and apply from a genuine loan company I told myself that any Loan lender that could change my Life and that of my family after being scammed severally by these online loan lenders, I will refer the person to Mrs Carroll Walker loan firm who gave me and my family happiness, although at first I found it hard to trust her because of my experiences with past loan lenders, I was in need of a loan of $37,000.00 to start my life all over as a single parent with 2 kids he is indeed a GOD fearing woman, working with a reputable loan company. If you are in need of a loan and you are 100% sure to pay back the loan please contact her on E-mail infoloanfirm247@gmail.com

Micheal james said...

Are you tired of seeking loans and Mortgages, have you been turned down constantly By your banks and other financial institutions,We offer any form of loan to individuals and corporate bodies at low interest rate. If you are interested in taking a loan, feel free to contact us today, We promise to offer you the best services ever. Just give us a try, because a trial will convince you.What are your Financial needs? Do you need a business loan?Do you need a personal loan? Do you want to buy a car?Do you want to refinance?Do you need a mortgage loan? Do you need a huge capital to start off your business proposal or expansion? Have you lost hope and you think there is no way out, and your financial burdens still persists? Contact us (infoloanfirm8@gmail.com)

Christopher Nissen said...

Goodday everyone, i am so glade coming back to this great forum to testify about the help i received from Carrol Walker. I was in desperate need of a loan in other to be free from debt and financial bondage that was place on me by my ex husband. It was really bad that i have to seek for help from Friends,family and even my bank but on one could assist me because my credit score was really bad. So i was browsing with my computer and saw some testimonies from people Carrol Walker assisted with a loan, then i decided to contact him on his email{infoloanfirm8@gmail.com}, then i received a mail from them and i did all that was asked from me. To my greatest surprise they transferred to my account the loan i requested and now i am so happy clearing my debt and have also started a business with the remaining amount to take care of myself and family. If you need a loan do contact the best loan lender of all time Carrol Walker on his email: {infoloanfirm8@gmail.com}

Davis Apollis said...

Do you need a loan???
Asson Online services offer flexible loans and funding for various projects. This loan allow customers to payback for as low as 2% interest rate for a period of 1 to 30 years.
We can approve a loan/cash for up to $2,000.00 USD to $500,000.000.00 USD depending on the kind of loan you need for your business. We are currently funding for
*Business Expansion
*Commercial Real Estate Project
*Personal Loan
*Montage Loan
*Home Loan
*Secure Loan
*Unsecured Loan
*Fixed Rate Loan
*Variable Rate Loan
*Cosigned Loan
*Debt Consolidation Loan
*Personal Line Of Credit
*Holiday Loan
*Home Improvement Loan
We are open to having a good relationship business with you 24/7. To get a loan please do not hesitate to contact us via whatsapp :+1 (443) 222 8529 or
Email:assonservices@gmail.com for more informations.

Kyriak Diana said...


If you need an urgent loan today with a very affordable interest rate of 2%. Please contact us today through Email:assonservices@gmail.com
or WhatsApp via :+1 (443) 222 8529.

Kyle Tarryn said...


Do you need a personal or business loan ...or bitcoin without stress and quick approval? If yes, contact us today as we are currently offering loans and bitcoin at 2% super interest rate per year. Our loan is secured and safe, our customers happiness is our strength. For more Information and Application, kindly contact us via e-mail: ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM  or WhatsApp  +1 (443) 222 8529  for more Info.

Adames Willfred said...


COVID-19 LOAN SUPPORT
The recent outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the total downturn of economic activities. Persons and companies have been affected negatively all over the globe.
As a result, Asson online services has decided to make available loan grants and business assistance to anyone who requires it.
Contact him today for yours.
EMAIL: ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM
or WHATSAPP: +1 (443) 222 8529
.

Tacio Lyn said...


Apply for a quick loan at Asson Finance Services today and get your loan approved and send to your account. If you are in Australia,Canada ,Europe, Africa, USA, UK and Asia do Contact this email: ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM , Company WhatsApp number:+1 (443) 222 8529 Asson Finance Services worldwide.

Mr. Robert Williams said...



I was a victim of a fake/scammers, but when I saw a post about a loan on how a man who got a loan from the Asson online services, I was overwhelmed and decided to contact them , I just got my loan approved and received my loan within few hours. If you are in need of finance help, don't hesitate to contact  Asson Online Services who grants loans at 2% interest rate throughout the  world. Apply for your genuine loan at Asson online services and stop wasting time with scam lenders.
just send an email (ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM) Whats-app +1 (443) 222 8529. Thanks Asson online services I'm forever grateful.

Manan Abdul said...


I came across a comment concerning how a woman received a loan from Asson online services on Facebook and I contacted the email I saw on the post and all of a sudden I was approved of a loan of €62,500 so I never believed all this can work till I was credited €62,500 in my bank account,i will advice anyone who is in financial stress, please don't hesitate to send a message to this email:(assonservices@gmail.com) Or whatsapp via:+1 (443) 222 8529.

Piang Reyes said...


HELLO!!!
DO YOU NEED A LOAN, OR YOU WANT TO REFINANCE YOUR HOME, PAY OFF BILLS, EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS? LOOK NO FURTHER WE OFFER ALL KINDS OF LOANS AS LOW AS 2% INTEREST RATE PER YEAR, WITH OR WITHOUT COLLATERAL. IF INTERESTED, CONTACT MRS. SUSAN McANANY VIA EMAIL: ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM OR WHATSAPP: +1 (443) 222 8529 TO PROCEED WITH THE LOAN PAPER WORK.

Thanks.
Asson Finance Services.
ASSONSERVICES@GMAIL.COM

PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMMERS said...

Very interesting article. Many articles I come across these days really not provide anything that attracts others, but believe me the way you interact is literally awesome. I will instantly grab your rss feed to stay informed of any updates you make and as well take the advantage to share some latest ongoing news, Fake divorce papers website on how to outshine your partner for a valid divorce papers or how to get a fake marriage certificate with legal documents. This Marriage system is widely used in the USA, UK, Australia and Canada presently by foreigners to obtain their full citizenship documents. l thought twice to bring this latest citizenship obtaining formula use by foreigners for everyone to be aware of. Thank so much for allowing me to pass this news to enlighten the public on what is going on around the world through your superb platform.
Not over demanding, I will also take the advantage to ask for your permission to join our 179.3k members TELEGRAM GROUP
to share with us your ideas or any latest update on your blog.
Thanks I am Scott from Globex, we are expecting you on our platform

Karen said...

how to invest in bitcoin and make money alphabitmining.com

End of an Era: Dr. Majid Kazi Is No More

Dr. Majid Kazi is no more By Siraj Wahab in Jeddah Friday, November 8, 2019 Dr. Majid Kazi, the personal physician to the late S...