India was notably absent at the signing ceremony for US President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” in Davos on January 22, an initiative aimed at fostering stability and long-term peace in Gaza and conflict-affected regions. The ceremony took place on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, with several major powers also choosing not to participate.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with leaders from France, the United Kingdom, China, and Germany, was invited to join the board but did not attend. New Delhi is reportedly assessing the strategic and diplomatic implications of joining a body that deals with sensitive regional conflicts and governance issues. India has consistently supported a two-state solution to the Palestine question, advocating peace and security within recognised borders for Israel and Palestine.
Countries that formally joined the board include Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Hungary, Morocco, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam. Meanwhile, Germany, Italy, Russia, Slovenia, Türkiye, and Ukraine have opted to remain non-committal, reflecting a cautious global reception to Trump’s proposal.
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The initiative, described by Washington as an international organisation to “promote stability, restore lawful governance, and secure enduring peace”, aims to implement Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza. The plan envisions a de-radicalised, terror-free Gaza and includes extensive redevelopment projects to improve living conditions for its residents.
The top tier of the board will comprise heads of state operating under Trump’s leadership, while a founding executive board has been established to operationalise the initiative. Members include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and World Bank president Ajay Banga. This executive board will supervise the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, tasked with implementing governance and redevelopment strategies.
The initiative signals Washington’s intent to offer a new framework for peace in Gaza, with a focus on accountability, international resource mobilisation, and pragmatic solutions. India’s cautious stance underscores New Delhi’s careful navigation of complex geopolitical challenges in the Middle East, balancing strategic interests and diplomatic consistency.
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