ISLAMABAD, Feb 8: Pakistan is set to participate in the inaugural summit of the Board of Peace for Gaza, scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C., on February 19, according to media reports. The board was unveiled by US President Donald Trump in January as part of the second phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, with the goal of promoting peace and stability in Gaza and the broader region.
The Pakistan Foreign Office confirmed on January 21 that the country had accepted Trump’s invitation, which also extended to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. While a formal decision is still pending, diplomatic sources indicate that Pakistan is likely to attend, with representation by either the prime minister or deputy prime minister. Islamabad received the invitation as part of outreach to countries that have already joined the board, which includes over 20 nations such as Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, the UAE, Indonesia, Argentina, and Hungary.
The February 19 summit is expected to focus on giving the board its initial shape and structure, discussing measures to restore peace and stability in Gaza, and formulating a future roadmap to address both security and humanitarian concerns arising from the ongoing crisis. Officials believe Pakistan’s participation will allow it to convey its perspective directly to key international stakeholders, advocate for coordinated efforts to prevent civilian casualties, and contribute to regional stability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has accepted an invitation to serve on the board, is also expected to be in Washington for separate meetings with President Trump. The summit, to be held at the US Institute of Peace, marks a significant diplomatic initiative in the region, signaling an international effort to manage the humanitarian and political challenges in Gaza while involving key stakeholders, including Pakistan, in shaping the path forward. (PTI)
