Global Invitations: On January 20, China acknowledged a formal invitation from Washington to participate in President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace.” While Beijing confirmed receipt of the letter, it refrained from stating its intention to accept or decline. The invitation was extended to many nations as part of Trump’s initiative to establish a new platform for conflict management, prompting cautious reactions from various countries, with diplomats expressing concerns about the initiative undermining the United Nations system. (Reuters photo)
Board Design: The initial focus of the Board of Peace would be the Gaza conflict, with plans to later address additional global issues. Trump would hold the position of chair for life, with member countries typically serving three-year terms. Nations that contribute $1 billion would be granted permanent membership, with US officials indicating those funds would support Gaza’s reconstruction, estimated by the World Bank to cost around $53 billion. (Generated image)
Who Was Invited: Countries such as Russia, Israel, India, Belarus, Slovenia, Thailand, and the European Commission have received invitations as well. Canada, Egypt, Turkey, Argentina, Paraguay, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and Hungary have confirmed receipt of their letters. The total number of invitees remains undisclosed by US officials, with the White House set to reveal the official membership list at the World Economic Forum in Davos. (AP photo)
Who Accepted: The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, became the first Arab leader to join the board, while the UAE President confirmed acceptance of the US invitation to participate in the Board of Peace for Gaza. Other countries, including Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Hungary, and Argentina, have also agreed to join. Belarus confirmed that President Alexander Lukashenko is prepared to participate. (Reuters photo)
(Photo Credit : Reuters)
Neither Accepted Nor Declined: During a year-end news conference on Russia’s 2025 diplomatic outcomes, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed that it was premature to discuss participation in the “Board of Peace,” citing numerous unresolved questions regarding the initiative. Thailand is still evaluating the proposal. As of now, no country has publicly confirmed intentions to pay for permanent membership. (Image: Reuters)
Who Rejected: France has stated it will not participate in the Board of Peace “at this stage,” citing apprehensions about UN principles and governance frameworks. President Emmanuel Macron’s decision prompted a sharp reaction from Trump, who criticized him and threatened a significant tariff on French wine. China has yet to respond to the invitation, and several unnamed nations have shared private doubts regarding the board’s authority and legitimacy. (Reuters photo)
Pending Responses: Israel has been invited to join, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not made a public declaration about his participation. The European Commission has not confirmed whether Ursula von der Leyen will accept, only indicating a desire to contribute to a peace initiative for Gaza. Similarly, Turkey has yet to provide an official response despite receiving an invitation. (Reuters photo)
Money and Membership: According to US officials, a three-year membership would not necessitate any financial contribution. However, securing a permanent seat would entail a $1 billion payment for Gaza’s reconstruction. As of now, no government has publicly committed to paying this amount. The UK is reportedly still consulting with its allies regarding the proposal, with the finalized membership list anticipated to be revealed shortly. (Reuters photo)