Indonesia and France have enjoyed over seventy years of diplomatic relations since their establishment in 1947. The recent visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Jakarta was met with a warm state welcome, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations. Thousands of students gathered at Merdeka Palace and Monas, dressed in their best attire and waving flags of both countries as the Macron’s motorcade arrived amidst tight security measures, setting a ceremonial tone for the visit.
President Macron graciously greeted the students upon his arrival at Merdeka Palace, where he was formally welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders walked together to the ceremonial grounds, accompanied by the national anthems of Indonesia and France, followed by a 21-gun salute as a mark of respect. The sight of enthusiastic students waving flags added to the vibrant atmosphere of the occasion.
Ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo, attended the ceremony alongside Macron. The French President’s itinerary in Indonesia included a visit to the Military Academy in Magelang and the iconic Borobudur Temple, underscoring the cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations. A closed-door bilateral meeting between Prabowo and Macron further solidified the strategic partnerships and collaborations between Indonesia and France, reflecting a deepening relationship between the two countries.
