ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will participate in the inaugural meeting of the international “Board of Peace” forum scheduled to take place in Washington on February 19.
The announcement was made during a weekly media briefing by the Foreign Office in Islamabad. Officials said the prime minister would attend the gathering alongside the deputy prime minister as part of a joint diplomatic engagement involving several Muslim-majority countries.
According to the Foreign Office, the forum will discuss post-conflict reconstruction in Gaza and broader efforts aimed at long-term regional stability. Pakistan’s participation was described as part of a collective approach rather than an individual national initiative.
The government reiterated its longstanding position supporting a negotiated settlement to the Palestinian issue based on internationally recognized parameters and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Responding to questions, officials said no schedule has yet been finalized for a possible visit to Pakistan by the Saudi crown prince, although such a visit remains under consideration this year.
Separately, the Foreign Office confirmed that the United Arab Emirates has extended a $2 billion financial deposit with Pakistan’s central bank. Authorities said the rollover supports foreign exchange reserves and helps maintain financial stability during ongoing economic reforms.
Officials added that Pakistan currently faces no immediate external financing shortfall.
