Indonesia and France have a long-standing diplomatic relationship that began in 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron was warmly welcomed in Jakarta by President Prabowo Subianto. The grand state welcome took place at Merdeka Palace, with over 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels lining the grounds, waving flags of both countries. Amid tight security, President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived at the palace in a motorcade from Monas, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere of the event.
President Macron greeted the students with warmth upon his arrival, accompanied by President Prabowo Subianto for an official welcome. The two leaders walked together to the ceremonial grounds, while the national anthems of both countries played and a 21-gun salute paid formal tribute. After inspecting the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, Macron acknowledged the enthusiastic students waving flags in the palace courtyard.
Ministers from the Red and White Cabinet and Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo, were present at the ceremony. Macron’s visit to Indonesia also included a trip to the Military Academy in Magelang and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, highlighting the shared cultural and educational values between the two countries. Following the welcome ceremony, President Prabowo and President Macron engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, signifying a deepening of ties between Indonesia and France.
