Prabowo Subianto to Attend Inaugural Board of Peace Summit in US

Prabowo Subianto, the President of Indonesia, will attend the inaugural summit of the Board of Peace in the United States on February 19, 2024. This confirmation comes from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which stated that the government has accepted the invitation to the meeting.

Yvonne Mewengkang, a spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized the significance of Prabowo’s attendance, stating, “His presence reinforces Indonesia’s commitment to actively shape the direction and work of the Board of Peace from the outset.”

The Board of Peace, initiated by the United States under the leadership of former President Donald Trump, aims to facilitate reconstruction efforts in Gaza and establish necessary aid commitments. Mewengkang noted that Indonesia plans to leverage this platform to prioritize the welfare of civilians in the Gaza Strip.

Indonesia’s Role and Priorities

During the summit, Indonesia will advocate for the protection of civilian lives, promote recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, and work toward a just and sustainable peace for Palestine based on a two-state solution, according to Mewengkang.

Last week, U.S. officials indicated that Trump would host the Board of Peace summit at the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. The meeting will focus on gathering support for reconstruction in Gaza and discussing the commitments required for humanitarian assistance.

The Board of Peace has 26 member countries, including Indonesia and Israel. Its establishment is seen as a crucial step in addressing the points proposed by Trump to end the ongoing aggression in Gaza. The council will also oversee a transitional government in Gaza and ensure accountability during this period.

Concerns Over Global Oversight

In a separate statement, Trump mentioned plans to expand the Board of Peace to address global conflicts. However, this proposal has raised concerns among experts who fear that the board could undermine the role of the United Nations. Critics argue that Trump’s oversight of foreign affairs through this council resembles a colonial structure, which could lead to increased tensions on the international stage.

As the summit approaches, attention will remain focused on how Indonesia, under Prabowo’s leadership, will navigate its role within this new international framework and advocate for the vital needs of the Palestinian people.