Prabowo Subianto to Attend Inaugural Board of Peace Summit in US

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will attend the inaugural summit of the Board of Peace on February 19, 2024, in the United States. The announcement was confirmed by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which stated that the government has accepted the invitation to participate in this significant meeting.

Yvonne Mewengkang, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that President Subianto’s presence at the summit highlights Indonesia’s commitment to actively shape the direction and operations of the Board of Peace from its inception. She noted that Indonesia aims to utilize this platform to prioritize the welfare of civilians in the Gaza Strip.

The Indonesian government intends to advocate for the protection of civilians, promote recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, and work towards a fair and sustainable peace for Palestine based on the two-state solution. Mewengkang articulated these goals, stating, “Indonesia will use the Board of Peace to champion civilian protection and pursue lasting peace.”

Recently, U.S. officials revealed that former President Donald Trump will host the Board of Peace summit at the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. The meeting is designed to galvanize support for reconstruction in Gaza and secure the necessary aid commitments.

The Board of Peace is an initiative launched by the United States under Trump’s leadership, with membership comprising 26 countries, including both Indonesia and Israel. This council is expected to play a crucial role in implementing Trump’s proposals aimed at ending Israeli aggression in Gaza. Furthermore, the Board will oversee transitional governance in Gaza, ensuring accountability during this critical period.

In a separate statement, Trump indicated that the board would eventually expand its focus to address global conflicts. However, concerns have been raised by experts who worry that the Board of Peace may undermine the role of the United Nations in international affairs. Critics argue that Trump’s oversight of the board resembles a colonial structure for managing foreign territories.

This summit represents a pivotal moment for Indonesia’s foreign policy, particularly in relation to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. With President Subianto’s attendance, Indonesia aims to assert its position as a proactive player in international peacebuilding efforts.