 "The irony of being Pakistan: To pay $1 bn for Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ seat while seeking $2.2 bn UAE aid")
Pakistan has announced that it will join US President Donald Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace,” a diplomatic initiative aimed at advancing a lasting ceasefire and reconstruction in war‑torn Gaza. The move comes as Pakistan juggles its own economic chaos, including attempts to secure financial relief from Gulf partners.
Yes, while the country is trying to roll over a $2.5 billion debt from the UAE and keep the IMF happy, it’s also coughing up around $1 billion to become a permanent member of a board that promises peace. Sounds like perfect timing.
$1 billion ‘peace’ fee
The ‘Board of Peace’ includes eight Islamic nations, and Pakistan is now officially one of them. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar defended the decision, saying it aligns with the country’s support for the Gaza Peace Plan. “We hope the Board will help concrete steps … towards the implementation of a permanent ceasefire,” he said as quoted by The Tribune.
Meanwhile, critics can’t help but notice the irony here. Asking for billions in debt relief from the UAE while signing up for an expensive international peace club. Pakistan is also still seeking backing from the IMF for its $7 billion loan programme, reminding everyone that the economy might be a tad more fragile than its foreign policy ambitions.
Also read | 'Weaponisation of water': Pak raises alarm at UN over India’s suspension of Indus Waters Treaty
Diplomacy meets domestic crunch
The announcement came on the heels of a visit to Davos for the 56th World Economic Forum (WEF) by Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, with the expectation that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Munir will meet Trump during the summit.
Quick Reads
View AllDPM/FM Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 held a sideline meeting today with Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Foreign Minister of Thailand, at the @wef #WEF26 in #Davos.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 22, 2026
The two Ministers reviewed Pakistan-Thailand bilateral relations, and reaffirmed their commitment to expand… pic.twitter.com/p6r2ltdFB2
Pakistan’s debt has climbed sharply in recent years, yet here it is, prioritising a seat at a table designed for “lasting peace.” Despite the clear irony, Islamabad insists the move demonstrates its willingness to engage in global diplomacy.
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