New Delhi marked a significant diplomatic step on Thursday by participating as an observer in the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace held in Washington DC. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed India’s attendance, underscoring its commitment to all efforts aimed at establishing peace in Gaza under UN Security Council resolutions.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the media during his weekly briefing in New Delhi, highlighting India’s role. ‘We participated in the Board of Peace meeting in Washington DC as an observer,’ he stated. ‘We welcome President Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan initiative and support all ongoing efforts under UNSC Resolution 2803.’
The high-profile gathering drew representatives from over 40 countries, including several heads of state. India’s presence was represented by Namgya Khampa, Charge d’Affaires at the Indian Embassy in Washington DC.
A key point of discussion was India’s stance on the joint statement issued at the meeting, which expressed concerns over ‘unilateral’ actions by Israel in the occupied West Bank. Jaiswal clarified, ‘This was not a typical UN agreement document. Our position on this matter was articulated in the recent India-Arab League joint statement at the ministerial level.’
He referred to the Delhi Declaration from the Second India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on January 31, which reaffirmed commitments to a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East based on international law, relevant UN resolutions, and the Arab Peace Initiative. The declaration supported the establishment of a sovereign, independent, and viable Palestinian state along 1967 borders, living in peace with Israel, and upheld the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.
This participation reflects India’s balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, positioning it as a constructive voice in international peace efforts. As global tensions persist, New Delhi’s engagement signals a proactive stance in fostering dialogue and stability in the region.