Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Friday said Pakistan received “great recognition and honour” at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, describing it as a proud moment for the country.
In a video shared by Radio Pakistan, Tarar said US President Donald Trump publicly praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, acknowledging Pakistan’s role and enhancing its global standing.
He said the appreciation elevated Pakistan’s stature internationally and showed that the country had emerged as an important player on the global stage. Tarar termed the development a success of Pakistan’s foreign policy and credited the coordinated efforts of the prime minister and the military leadership.
The minister noted that PM Shehbaz has consistently highlighted the Palestinian cause at international forums, including the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
“At the meeting, the prime minister clearly stated three points: Palestinians have a right to their land, they must be granted self-determination in line with UN Security Council resolutions, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state is essential for durable peace,” Tarar said, adding that the remarks reflected the sentiments of Palestinians and resonated strongly across the Muslim world.
He also pointed to what he described as the leaders’ confident demeanour during the meeting, saying it reflected strong diplomatic engagement and further strengthened Pakistan’s image.
“Pakistan’s foreign policy is moving forward decisively. From a period of isolation, the country’s standing has changed significantly, proving that sincere leadership delivers positive outcomes,” he said.
The inaugural Board of Peace session was held in Washington on February 19, chaired by President Trump at the US Institute of Peace, with PM Shehbaz attending at his invitation.
In his address, the prime minister called for an end to ceasefire violations in Gaza, stressing that sustained calm was vital for achieving long-term peace.
The Board of Peace, first proposed in September 2025 as part of a 20-point Gaza peace plan, was endorsed through UN Security Council Resolution 2803 in November. The resolution authorises international cooperation for Gaza’s reconstruction, with the board tasked with humanitarian, rebuilding and broader conflict-resolution responsibilities.