KBRN, Sharm El-Sheikh: Indonesia’s international standing was highlighted at the Gaza Peace Summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on Monday, October 13, 2025, where US President Donald Trump publicly hailed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as a "great leader."

The unexpected commendation occurred during the joint statement session at the Sharm El Shaikh International Convention Centre, highlighting Indonesia's role in global peace efforts, according to a written statement from the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

In a remarkable gesture of respect, President Trump took a moment to introduce the Indonesian leader to the assembled heads of state. “Also with us is President Prabowo. A tremendous figure, the President of Indonesia,” Trump remarked. The US President then specifically requested that President Prabowo step up to the podium and deliver an address to the gathering of world leaders.

However, President Prabowo politely declined the invitation, choosing instead to walk up to the podium to shake hands with President Trump. This diplomatic action was immediately noted for demonstrating high diplomatic etiquette, reflecting a deep respect for the established protocol of the international forum.

Furthermore, the decision underscored the humility of a leader representing a major nation. This exchange became a focal point of the summit, illustrating a skillful balance between accepting diplomatic honor and exercising personal prudence in international relations.

President Prabowo’s presence and the public appreciation from President Trump reinforced Indonesia's position as a globally respected country involved in global peace efforts.

The high-level meeting was attended by other prominent world leaders, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, French President Emmanuel Macron, and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. (Naura Sofia/Sri Wahyuni)