Indonesia and France have enjoyed diplomatic relations for more than seventy years, dating back to 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Jakarta and received a warm state welcome from President Prabowo Subianto. The streets around Merdeka Palace and the National Monument were lined with 3,000 students, representing elementary to high school levels, donning their best attire and waving the flags of both countries. The motorcade transporting President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron made its way from Monas to the palace amidst tight security, creating a ceremonial ambiance.
Upon arrival at Merdeka Palace, President Macron greeted the students with warmth before being officially welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto. Both leaders proceeded to the ceremonial grounds, where the national anthems of Indonesia and France were played, accompanied by a 21-gun salute as a formal gesture. Subianto and Macron then inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron showing appreciation for the students’ enthusiasm in the palace courtyard.
The ceremony was attended by ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo. Macron’s itinerary in Indonesia included visits to the Military Academy in Magelang and the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, highlighting the cultural and educational connections between the two nations. Following the welcome ceremony, the two leaders engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, signifying a further strengthening of the bond between Indonesia and France.
