Uzbekistan formally joined the Board of Peace on Gaza after President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed an accession agreement. The initiative was launched by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The agreement was signed in Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum.
According to CNN, representatives from fewer than 20 countries attended the ceremony, despite earlier reports that 35 participants were expected.
«We have a great group of people and incredible young people that are leading it from within,» he said during the announcement of the board in Davos.
The U.S. president added that the new organisation intends to work with the United Nations, pointing to what he described as the UN’s unrealised potential. Trump said the world was «calmer» today and voiced confidence that the Peace Council would soon help achieve lasting peace in Gaza.
According to Reuters, each participating country holds one vote, with decisions adopted by a majority. However, resolutions only take effect after approval by the board’s chairman, Donald Trump.
Countries seeking permanent membership must contribute $1 bn, while temporary membership for a three-year term is free. The funds are intended to support the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
Votes within the board are to be held at least once a year, with additional meetings convened at the chairman’s discretion. Trump is also expected to retain the role of chair after his term as U.S. president ends.
Invitations were sent to 58 countries, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Most European Union countries have declined to join the Board of Peace, citing concerns that the body could undermine the role of the United Nations in resolving global conflicts.
