By Amir Muhammad Khan
In a historic diplomatic move announced last week, Pakistan formally accepted an invitation to join the newly formed Board of Peace, a platform aimed at promoting sustainable peace and reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected areas, particularly Gaza. The Federal Cabinet ratified the decision at the World Economic Forum in Davos, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signing it in May. India’s expansionist policies and repeated deception have become increasingly clear to the world, while Pakistan’s foreign policy is reaching new heights. The purpose of Pakistan’s participation in the Board of Peace is to demonstrate that it is a peace-loving country, committed to resolving global conflicts. The invitation from former US President Donald Trump further underlines Pakistan’s reputation for diplomatic excellence and its sincere desire for regional and global stability.
Meanwhile, India continues to engage in terrorist activities both regionally and internationally, a key reason it has refused to join the board. Pakistan’s closest allies, including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the Emirates, Indonesia, and Qatar, are participating in the Gaza Peace Board. A Foreign Office spokesperson said that the board aims to establish a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, and that Al-Quds Al-Sharif will serve as the capital of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. Participation in the board was a joint decision of the foreign ministers of Muslim countries, and it is expected to act as an interim administration for maintaining peace in the region. Analysts note that Pakistan’s involvement underscores its growing diplomatic influence.
After years of waiting for progress in Gaza, Pakistan and seven other Muslim-majority countries have taken a practical step towards achieving peace. The board reflects not only Muslim unity but also a renewed hope for a resolution to the longstanding Palestinian issue. The board, proposed under Trump’s Gaza peace plan, is designed to facilitate multilateral cooperation, implement ceasefires, provide humanitarian aid, and oversee post-conflict reconstruction. Observers suggest that Pakistan’s participation could enhance its global image and diplomatic leverage. By engaging with traditional allies and new international platforms, Islamabad aims to strengthen its voice in peace negotiations and build strategic partnerships that support broader foreign policy goals. India’s refusal to join the board reflects its reluctance to face scrutiny over its actions in Kashmir.
New Delhi claims that participation would contradict its independent foreign policy, but critics argue that this is an attempt to avoid accountability for documented human rights abuses and military occupation in the region. By staying away, India has opted for isolation, prioritizing image over meaningful diplomacy. In contrast, Pakistan is being recognized as an active contributor to international peace initiatives. Its presence in the board signals that major powers value its perspective in conflict resolution. This credibility has been bolstered by unity among Pakistan’s political and institutional actors, reinforcing a coherent foreign policy. Pakistan’s advocacy for Palestinian rights and involvement in humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza aligns with its long-standing moral and diplomatic positions. It also strengthens ties with the United States, Gulf states, and other influential nations, creating opportunities for future economic, military, and political cooperation.
By joining the Peace Board, Pakistan has enhanced its reputation as a responsible and peace-loving nation. Its active participation is increasing its credibility in the UN, the OIC, and other international forums. India’s absence, meanwhile, sends a clear message that it is unwilling to pursue peace and fears pressure from major powers to curb its terrorist policies. History shows that whenever Pakistan’s political and military institutions act in unity, the country overcomes major crises. This cohesion remains the nation’s greatest strength. The recent surge in Pakistan’s diplomatic activities, particularly its strengthened relations with Muslim countries and other global powers, is a testament to this unity. If the United States and other major powers remain committed to the board’s objectives, there is hope for tangible progress toward peace in the region and beyond.
(The writer is a veteran journalist having 45 years of experience across print and broadcast media in Pakistan and the United States, can reached at editorial@metro-morning.com)
