Abu Dhabi [UAE], January 21 (ANI): Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, has accepted an invitation from the United States to join the Gaza Board of Peace, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced on Tuesday.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed said the decision reflects the importance of fully implementing US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza, which he described as critical to realising the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. He reaffirmed the UAE’s confidence in President Trump’s leadership and commitment to global peace, citing the Abraham Accords as an example.
He also reiterated the UAE’s readiness to contribute actively to the mission of the Board of Peace, with a focus on strengthening cooperation, stability, and prosperity, according to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Trump has also invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join the Gaza Board of Peace, describing him as one of several world leaders considered for the initiative.
The formation of the Gaza Board of Peace, as part of Phase 2 of the 20-point peace plan to end the conflict in the Middle East, is intended to promote stability and oversee post-conflict reconstruction in the Gaza Strip.
Responding to questions from reporters during a media interaction, Trump said Putin was among those invited to participate in the board, which he said would work towards peace and stability in Gaza. When asked directly whether he had invited President Putin to join the Board of Peace, Trump replied, ‘Yes, he’s one of the people. These are world leaders. And the answer is yes.’
The Board of Peace was proposed by Trump last September as part of his plan to end the war in Gaza, although the initiative is now described as having a broader role in mediating global conflicts.
According to a White House statement, proposed Executive Board members would oversee portfolios critical to Gaza’s stabilisation and long-term development, including governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding, and capital mobilisation.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also been invited by Trump to serve on the Gaza Peace Board. Countries committing USD 1 billion would secure permanent seats on the board, while others could participate for a three-year term.
(ANI)