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 brainchild of former US President Donald Trump, in a bid to support the Gaza Peace Plan. This move comes at a time when the country is grappling with a severe economic crisis, and has recently approached the United Arab Emirates (UAE) seeking a rollover of its $2.5-billion maturing debt. The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a strategic move by Pakistan to bolster its international relations and potentially secure economic benefits.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, made the announcement, stating that the country’s participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ is a testament to its commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. The ‘Board of Peace’ is a platform aimed at promoting dialogue and cooperation among nations to resolve conflicts and promote economic development. However, the membership comes with a hefty price tag, with Pakistan required to pay a $1-billion fee to join as a permanent member.
The economic situation in Pakistan is dire, with the country struggling to service its debts and meet its financial obligations. The approach to the UAE seeking a debt rollover and a reduction in the applicable interest rate is a clear indication of the country’s desperation to stay afloat. The $2.5-billion debt is set to mature soon, and Pakistan is hoping to negotiate a favorable deal to avoid defaulting on its payments.
The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ has raised eyebrows, given the significant fee required for membership. Critics argue that the $1-billion fee is a substantial burden on Pakistan’s already strained economy. However, proponents of the move argue that the benefits of membership, including potential economic benefits and improved international relations, outweigh the costs.
The ‘Board of Peace’ is a relatively new initiative, and its effectiveness in promoting peace and stability is yet to be seen. However, the platform has already garnered significant attention and support from several countries, including some of the world’s major economic powers. Pakistan’s decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a strategic move to align itself with these countries and potentially secure economic benefits.
The Gaza Peace Plan, which the ‘Board of Peace’ is designed to support, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region. The plan involves a range of measures, including economic development, infrastructure building, and social welfare programs. Pakistan’s participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ is seen as a significant development in the country’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
The economic benefits of membership in the ‘Board of Peace’ are still uncertain, but Pakistan is hoping to secure significant benefits, including investments, trade agreements, and economic aid. The country is also hoping to improve its international relations, particularly with the UAE, which has been a significant supporter of Pakistan’s economy.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is a significant development, given the country’s economic situation. The move is seen as a strategic effort to promote peace and stability in the region, while also securing economic benefits. However, the significant fee required for membership has raised concerns about the country’s ability to afford it. As Pakistan navigates its economic crisis, the decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ will be closely watched, and its implications will be far-reaching.
The development is a significant one, and it remains to be seen how Pakistan’s participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ will play out. The country’s economic situation is dire, and the decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is a calculated risk. Only time will tell if the move will pay off, and if Pakistan will be able to reap the benefits of membership.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that Pakistan’s decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is a complex one, driven by a range of factors, including economic, political, and strategic considerations. The country’s participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ will be closely watched, and its implications will be far-reaching.
For now, Pakistan’s focus is on navigating its economic crisis, while also promoting peace and stability in the region. The decision to join the ‘Board of Peace’ is a significant development, and it remains to be seen how it will play out. One thing is certain, however: Pakistan’s participation in the ‘Board of Peace’ will be a significant development, with far-reaching implications for the country and the region.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/pakistan-join-trumps-board-peace-gaza-2026-01-21/