More than 70 years have passed since Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947. Recently, in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect, French President Emmanuel Macron was warmly welcomed in Jakarta. The grounds of Merdeka Palace and the area surrounding the National Monument (Monas) were bustling with approximately 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels, impeccably dressed and enthusiastically waving the flags of both Indonesia and France. The motorcade carrying President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron proceeded from Monas to the palace, escorted under tight security, adding to the ceremonial ambiance.
Upon his arrival at Merdeka Palace, President Macron greeted the students with warmth, where he was officially welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders strolled together to the ceremonial grounds, with the national anthems of both countries playing and a 21-gun salute as a formal gesture of respect. Prabowo and Macron then inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron acknowledging the school children waving miniature flags in the palace courtyard.
Ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, along with Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo, were present at the ceremony. Macron’s visit to Indonesia included a visit to the Military Academy in Magelang and a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Borobudur Temple, highlighting the shared cultural and educational values between Indonesia and France. Following the welcome ceremony, the two leaders engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, signifying a strengthening of ties between Indonesia and France.
