Greece attends Board of Peace meeting as observer

Greece will participate as an observer in a Board of Peace meeting on Gaza convened by US President Donald Trump on February 19 in Washington, the government announced. Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis will represent the country at the session focused on the Gaza reconstruction efforts and regional stability.

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed Greece’s participation in the Washington meeting scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized that the country has expressed its initial intention to be present both in stabilization forces and in the reconstruction of Gaza.

Greece’s Observer Status at Board of Peace Meeting

According to a senior government source, Theoharis was selected to represent Greece because his portfolio includes economic diplomacy and extroversion, making him “the most competent official for issues related to the reconstruction of Gaza.” The source noted that other European Union countries will also attend the Board of Peace meeting as observers without top-level representation.

Greece’s involvement in Gaza peace efforts reflects its unique diplomatic position in the region. Marinakis described it as “extremely important that Greece is among the few countries that enjoy acceptance from both Israel and the Palestinian Authority and the Arab world as a whole.”

Strategic Role in Regional Diplomacy

The country’s participation comes as it serves as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council. Speaking in Parliament on January 26, Theoharis highlighted Greece’s “direct involvement” in developments related to Gaza, citing Resolution 2803 on ending the Gaza war.

Additionally, the deputy minister stated that Greece has supported and worked to implement the 20-point peace plan “with all its forces.” This commitment demonstrates the country’s willingness to contribute to Middle East peace initiatives beyond simple diplomatic gestures.

Reconstruction and Stabilization Efforts

Greece’s interest in Gaza reconstruction represents a significant aspect of its foreign policy strategy. The government has positioned itself as a potential contributor to both physical rebuilding efforts and security stabilization forces that may be deployed following any peace agreement.

However, the exact nature and scope of Greece’s potential involvement in reconstruction projects remains to be determined. The Board of Peace meeting is expected to provide clarity on how participating nations will coordinate their efforts and resources for Gaza’s recovery.

Meanwhile, Greece’s balanced relationships across the region provide a unique advantage for potential mediation and reconstruction roles. The country maintains strong ties with Israel while also enjoying acceptance among Palestinian authorities and broader Arab nations, positioning it as a credible intermediary.

The Trump administration’s convening of the Board of Peace meeting signals renewed American engagement in resolving the Gaza crisis. In contrast to previous approaches, this initiative appears focused on bringing together nations willing to participate in post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction rather than traditional peace negotiations.

The February 19 meeting will likely outline specific roles for participating nations and establish frameworks for coordination between observer countries and primary stakeholders. Greece’s attendance as an observer allows it to assess opportunities for meaningful contribution without immediate high-level political commitments.

Further details about Greece’s specific commitments to Gaza stabilization and reconstruction efforts are expected to emerge following the Washington meeting, though authorities have not confirmed precise timelines or resource allocations for potential involvement.