Pak Agrees to Join ‘Board of Peace’ after Seeking $2.5-bn Debt’s Rollover for Ailing Economy
In a significant development, Pakistan has announced its decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’, a initiative spearheaded by former US President Donald Trump, aimed at promoting peace in the Gaza region. This move comes at a time when the country is grappling with a severe economic crisis, and has been seeking assistance from its allies to mitigate the burden of its debt obligations. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, made the announcement, highlighting the country’s commitment to supporting the Gaza Peace Plan.
The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a strategic move by Pakistan, as it seeks to bolster its international relations and secure economic assistance. The country has been facing significant economic challenges, with a burgeoning debt burden and dwindling foreign exchange reserves. In recent days, Pakistan approached the United Arab Emirates (UAE), seeking a rollover of its $2.5-billion maturing debt, as well as a reduction in the applicable interest rate. This move is aimed at providing some respite to the country’s ailing economy, which has been struggling to stay afloat amidst rising inflation, a depreciating currency, and a significant trade deficit.
The ‘Board of Peace’ is an initiative launched by Donald Trump, with the aim of promoting peace and stability in the Gaza region. The board is expected to play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation between various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and civil society groups. By joining the ‘Board of Peace’, Pakistan is demonstrating its commitment to supporting the Gaza Peace Plan, and its desire to contribute to the promotion of peace and stability in the region.
However, Pakistan’s decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ comes at a significant cost. According to reports, the country will be required to pay a fee of $1 billion to join as a permanent member. This is a substantial amount, given the country’s current economic situation. Nevertheless, the government appears to be willing to bear this cost, in the hope that it will lead to greater economic benefits and international cooperation in the long run.
The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ has been welcomed by various sections of the international community, who see it as a positive step towards promoting peace and stability in the region. The move is also expected to strengthen Pakistan’s relations with other countries, particularly those that are already part of the ‘Board of Peace’. This could lead to greater economic cooperation, investment, and trade between Pakistan and other member countries, which would be a significant boost to the country’s economy.
In recent years, Pakistan has been facing significant economic challenges, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and other global economic trends. The country’s debt burden has been rising, and its foreign exchange reserves have been dwindling. The government has been seeking assistance from international organizations, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as well as from friendly countries, to help mitigate the impact of these challenges.
The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a strategic move by Pakistan, as it seeks to diversify its international relations and secure economic assistance. The country has been a key player in regional and international affairs, and its participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ is expected to further enhance its stature and influence. Furthermore, the move is also expected to contribute to the promotion of peace and stability in the region, which is a key objective of the ‘Board of Peace’.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is a significant development, which reflects the country’s commitment to supporting the Gaza Peace Plan and promoting peace and stability in the region. While the move comes at a significant cost, it is expected to lead to greater economic benefits and international cooperation in the long run. As the country continues to grapple with significant economic challenges, its participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a strategic move, aimed at securing economic assistance and bolstering its international relations.
News Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistan-join-trumps-board-peace-gaza-2026-01-21/
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