Indonesian President's Request to Trump Unveiled by Whistleblower
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto asked Donald Trump to arrange a meeting with his son Eric during what they thought was a private conversation at a summit in Egypt. The exchange was accidentally picked up by a live microphone, revealing the Indonesian leader's interest in connecting with Trump's business empire.
The conversation happened at a resort in Sharm el-Sheikh after Trump addressed world leaders gathered for a summit following the Gaza ceasefire announcement. Both leaders appeared unaware their words were being broadcast.
Standing behind a podium with an active microphone, Prabowo asked Trump directly: "Can I meet Eric?" Trump responded positively, saying "I'll have Eric call you. Should I do that? He's a good kid." He repeated the promise, adding "I'll have Eric call you."
Prabowo then expanded his request, mentioning "Eric or Don Junior" - referring to both of Trump's sons who serve as executive vice presidents of the Trump Organization.
The brief exchange raises questions about potential business dealings between Indonesia and the Trump family's commercial interests. Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. run the Trump Organization, which operates real estate developments and hospitality services worldwide.
But the audio clip doesn't reveal what specific business opportunities or deals might be under discussion. Indonesia represents a significant market for international businesses, and the country has been expanding its economic partnerships globally.
This isn't the first time Trump family business interests have intersected with international diplomacy. During Trump's previous presidency, ethics experts raised concerns about potential conflicts between his official duties and his family's commercial activities.
The accidental recording shows how business and diplomatic conversations can blur together at international gatherings. For investors and businesses watching U.S.-Indonesia relations, any formal partnerships involving the Trump Organization could signal broader economic cooperation between the two countries.
Layla Al Mansoori