Indonesia and France have a long-standing diplomatic relationship that dates back to 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron was warmly welcomed in Jakarta by President Prabowo Subianto in a grand state reception. The event took place at Merdeka Palace, where around 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels gathered, dressed neatly and waving flags of both nations. The motorcade carrying President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron moved from Monas to the palace, accompanied by tight security, creating a ceremonious atmosphere.
Upon arrival at Merdeka Palace, President Macron greeted the students with warmth and respect before being greeted officially by President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders proceeded together to the ceremonial grounds, with the national anthems of both countries playing and a 21-gun salute as a mark of tribute. Macron and Prabowo inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron acknowledging the enthusiastic students waving flags in the palace courtyard.
Attended by ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo, the ceremony was a significant event in strengthening the ties between Indonesia and France. Macron’s itinerary in Indonesia included a visit to the Military Academy in Magelang and a stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, highlighting the shared cultural and educational values of the two nations. Following the welcome ceremony, President Macron and President Prabowo held a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss strategic partnerships, signifying a deepening of the relationship between Indonesia and France.
