Prabowo Subianto Meets with President Trump to Discuss Trade and Gaza Peace

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, for a series of meetings with U.S. Business leaders, a summit focused on Gaza peace, and a bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump. The visit signals a strengthening of ties between the two nations and addresses critical global issues.

Arrival and Welcoming Ceremony

President Subianto landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at approximately 12:00 p.m. Local time, aboard a Garuda Indonesia aircraft. He was greeted by Indonesian Ambassador to the United States Dwisuryo Indroyono Soesilo, Indonesian Defense Attaché Air Marshal E. Wisoko Aribowo, and Colonel Gary Charland. Following the welcome, President Subianto proceeded to a hotel in downtown Washington, D.C., where he was greeted by members of the Indonesian diaspora, students, and embassy staff.

Trade Negotiations and Economic Cooperation

A key focus of President Subianto’s visit is the advancement of trade relations between Indonesia and the United States. Discussions with President Trump will center on a reciprocal trade agreement (ART), which has been under negotiation since 2025. In July 2025, President Trump announced a deal to lower tariffs for Indonesia from 32 percent to 19 percent, a move hailed by President Subianto as ushering in a “new era of mutual benefit.” Indonesia has also agreed to purchase $15 billion of U.S. Energy exports, $4.5 billion of U.S. Agricultural products, and 50 Boeing jets as part of the agreement. Al Jazeera reports that this represents a significant step forward in economic cooperation.

Gaza Peace Summit

President Subianto is also scheduled to attend the inaugural Gaza Board of Peace summit on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The summit, initiated by President Trump, aims to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza and explore pathways toward a lasting peace. ABC News notes that the meeting will include leaders from over 20 countries, though traditional Western allies are conspicuously absent.

Delegation and Accompanying Officials

Accompanying President Subianto on his trip to the United States are Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia. President Subianto was seen wearing his signature black peci cap throughout his arrival and greeting with welcoming parties.

Looking Ahead

President Subianto’s visit to the U.S. Represents a significant diplomatic effort to strengthen Indonesia’s economic ties and play a constructive role in addressing global challenges. The outcomes of the trade negotiations and the Gaza peace summit will be closely watched both domestically and internationally.