Saudi Arabia’s Shoura Council has rejected a proposal to allow women to serve abroad as ambassadors, according to local media.
Lubna Al Ansari, one of 30 women appointed to the influential body that advises King Salman, had recommended women be appointed to key positions in the Kingdom’s administrative, financial and technical fields as well as in diplomatic missions abroad, Saudi Gazette said.
The foreign affairs committee refused. However, it said such a policy matter could be determined by the higher authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does have the power to appoint women in key positions, including ambassador, and makes those decisions based on qualifications and capabilities, the committee report said.
The council also reportedly rejected a separate proposal to increase salary of diplomats and other officials working at Saudi missions abroad.
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