First-ever Arab women's summit

What's described as the first ever women's summit in the Arab world has opened in the Egyptian capital, Cairo.

Among those attending are the wives of nine Arab leaders and they have a full agenda of legal, social, economic and political issues to discuss.

Only Saudi Arabia and Qatar are staying away away from the event.

The host, Susan Mubarak -- wife of the Egyptian president, Hosni Mubarak -- said their most serious concern stemmed from outmoded traditions and customs.They're expected to issue a joint declaration on Monday.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service