Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced that Canada has no intention of paying the $1 billion US cost for a permanent seat on U.S. President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” overseeing Gaza’s governance and reconstruction. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Champagne emphasized that Canada would not contribute financially to the board.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, who was invited to join the board along with 59 other world leaders, accepted the invitation but noted that details on the structure and financing were still being reviewed. Champagne highlighted the need for clarity on the board’s terms of reference before Canada commits to participating.
Membership on the board, chaired by Trump for life, requires countries to pay $1 billion US for permanent status, according to the invitation letter. Carney emphasized that Canada prioritizes direct assistance to Palestinians in Gaza over financial contributions to the board. He stressed the importance of unimpeded aid delivery to Gaza before considering further involvement.
The White House stated that permanent membership is offered to partner countries demonstrating a strong commitment to peace, security, and prosperity. Carney reiterated Canada’s focus on maximizing the impact of financial assistance to Gaza and emphasized the necessity of unhindered humanitarian aid flows to the region.
Apart from the main board, Trump has appointed officials to executive committees overseeing Gaza, including representatives from Turkey and Qatar. A team of 15 Palestinian technocrats, vetted by Israel’s Mossad spy agency and unaffiliated with Hamas, will handle daily operations in Gaza.
The United Arab Emirates and Hungary have accepted invitations to the board, while other countries are cautious pending finalization of details. Concerns have been raised about the board potentially undermining the United Nations’ authority in conflict resolution efforts.
The second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal has been launched by the United States, addressing challenges such as disarming Hamas and deploying an international peacekeeping force. The first phase faced obstacles, including Israeli airstrikes, Hamas’s actions, and delays in border crossings, prompting the need for sustained mediation efforts.
