Indonesia and France have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over 70 years since establishing them in 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Jakarta and was welcomed with great enthusiasm and respect. A grand state welcome was held at Merdeka Palace, where about 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels gathered, dressed neatly and proudly waving the flags of Indonesia and France. The ceremonial atmosphere was heightened as President Macron arrived at the palace with First Lady Brigitte Macron, escorted under tight security amidst the cheering students.
President Macron and President Prabowo Subianto shared warm greetings at Merdeka Palace before walking together to the ceremonial grounds. The national anthems of both countries were played, and a 21-gun salute paid formal tribute to the distinguished guests. The two leaders inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron acknowledging the cheerful students waving miniature flags in the courtyard. Ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo, also attended the ceremony.
As part of his visit, President Macron also visited the Military Academy in Magelang and the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, emphasizing the shared cultural and educational values between Indonesia and France. The two presidents then engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, symbolizing a deepening of ties between the two countries. The visit marked an important chapter in the ongoing relationship between Indonesia and France.
