Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated that Canada has no intention of paying the $1 billion US fee for a permanent seat on President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace,” responsible for managing and rebuilding Gaza. Champagne confirmed this decision while speaking to reporters at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Prime Minister Mark Carney, who accepted an invitation to join the board, mentioned that detailed discussions on the structure and financing are still pending.
Champagne emphasized the need to finalize the terms of reference for the board before Canada commits. The board, chaired indefinitely by Trump, allows member countries three-year terms unless they contribute $1 billion US each for permanent membership.
The White House highlighted that permanent membership is reserved for partner countries showing unwavering dedication to peace, security, and prosperity. Carney reiterated Canada’s focus on providing direct aid to Palestinians in Gaza rather than pursuing a permanent seat on the board.
Canada has not been asked to pay for a permanent seat at this time, and Carney stressed the importance of humanitarian aid reaching the people of Gaza without hindrance. Trump has appointed officials to executive committees to guide the Gaza process, drawing criticism from countries like Israel. The operational responsibilities in Gaza will be assumed by a team of 15 Palestinian technocrats, screened by Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency.
The United Arab Emirates and Hungary have accepted invitations to the board, while other nations are cautious about the implications of the board’s charter. The second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal has been initiated by the United States, focusing on disarming Hamas and deploying an international peacekeeping force to address ongoing challenges.
