Dozens of world leaders and national delegations are gathering this Thursday in Washington for the first meeting of Donald Trump’s Peace Board. Among them, Prime Minister Edi Rama traveled to the U.S. yesterday. Meanwhile, other delegations are arriving from across the globe.

Albania Joins as Founding Member

A month ago, Rama announced that he had received an invitation to join the new international body. Consequently, Albania became a founding member of the Peace Board, which aims to administer Gaza and promote regional peace. Furthermore, Rama expressed pride in Albania’s role, emphasizing that the country will not contribute financially to membership or permanent status.

Focus on Gaza Reconstruction

The Board initially focused on Gaza’s reconstruction. However, since then, Trump has expanded its mandate to address other global conflicts.

On Thursday, the main agenda will feature a reconstruction plan for Gaza, which Israeli conflict has largely reduced to rubble. In addition, the U.S. plans to announce $5 billion in funding from member states to support humanitarian aid and rebuilding efforts.

Moreover, the Board will review the International Stabilization Force, which aims to maintain security in Gaza under Trump’s 20-point plan. Specifically, the plan proposes a phased ceasefire, disarmament of Hamas, and a temporary technocratic governance structure for Palestinian territories.

Controversial Reconstruction Vision

The Peace Board officially debuted last month at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. At that event, Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and executive member, presented a reconstruction vision that included beachfront resorts and high-rise towers. Nevertheless, Palestinian advocacy groups criticized these plans as “imperialist.”

On February 15, Trump wrote on Truth Social that member states had deployed thousands of personnel in the International Stabilization Force and local police to maintain security and peace for Gaza’s residents. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of stability for civilians.

Monumental Task Ahead

Rebuilding Gaza and other Palestinian territories destroyed by Israeli bombings and West Bank raids will cost around $70 billion. As a result, experts expect the task to be monumental.

Although the Board initially concentrated on the Israel-Palestine conflict, it has since expanded to address global crises. Therefore, Trump stated that the Board will “present a bold vision for civilians in Gaza, and ultimately, far beyond Gaza — WORLD PEACE!”