More than seventy years have passed since Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron was warmly welcomed in Jakarta in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect. The grand state welcome took place at Merdeka Palace, where around 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels gathered, dressed neatly and waving Indonesian and French flags. President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived at the palace from Monas, escorted under tight security, enhancing the ceremonial atmosphere.
President Macron greeted the students upon his arrival at Merdeka Palace, where he was welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto in an official ceremony. The two leaders walked together to the ceremonial grounds, with both countries’ national anthems played and a 21-gun salute performed as a mark of respect. Prabowo and Macron then inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron appreciating the students’ enthusiasm as they waved miniature flags in the palace courtyard.
The ceremony was attended by ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, alongside Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo. 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 nations. Following the welcome ceremony, the Indonesian and French heads of state held a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss strategic partnerships, signifying a deepening of ties between Indonesia and France.
