Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to attend the inaugural session of the U.S. President Donald Trump-led Board of Peace on February 19 in Washington, D.C., sources confirmed on Tuesday. The session, to be held at the U.S. Institute of Peace, will also serve as a fundraising conference for Gaza’s reconstruction.
Formal Participation and International Engagement
The Pakistani government has formally notified the Gaza Peace Board of the prime minister’s attendance. This move aligns with Pakistan’s stated commitment to engage with international efforts for peace and security in Gaza, aiming for a lasting solution in line with United Nations resolutions.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi recently emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to play a “constructive role” in the U.S. peace plan for Palestine. The Board of Peace was launched by President Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos in late January, with PM Shehbaz among the world leaders who signed its founding charter.
Board’s Structure and Global Reactions
The board, initially conceived to supervise Gaza’s temporary governance under Trump’s plan revealed last year, has since been expanded to address global conflicts. Membership involves leaders from 19 countries, including allies like Argentina and Hungary, but has seen cautious responses from many traditional Western allies. Permanent membership carries a reported cost of $1 billion.
A UN Security Council resolution in mid-November authorized the board and associated countries to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza, where a fragile ceasefire began in October. However, the ceasefire has been repeatedly violated, with over 550 Palestinians and four Israeli soldiers killed since it took effect.
Controversies and Criticisms
The initiative has faced criticism from human rights experts, who argue that Trump overseeing a board to manage a foreign territory’s affairs resembles a colonial structure. Critics also note the absence of Palestinian representation on the board. A spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not immediately comment on the upcoming meeting.
As the February 19 meeting approaches, it marks a significant step in international diplomacy concerning Gaza, with Pakistan positioning itself as an active participant in these high-stakes peace efforts.
