Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947, marking over seven decades of friendship and mutual respect. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Jakarta and received a grand state welcome. The event took place at Merdeka Palace and the area surrounding the National Monument (Monas), where approximately 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels gathered, dressed neatly and waving the flags of Indonesia and France. The motorcade carrying President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron made its way from Monas to the palace, escorted under tight security, creating a ceremonial atmosphere.
Upon arriving at Merdeka Palace, President Macron warmly greeted the students and was welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto in an official reception. The two leaders proceeded to the ceremonial grounds, with the national anthems of both countries played and a 21-gun salute as a formal tribute. President Prabowo and President Macron inspected the honor guard under Jakarta’s clear blue sky, while Macron acknowledged the enthusiastic students waving miniature flags in the palace courtyard.
The event was attended by ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo. Macron’s visit to Indonesia included a trip to the Military Academy in Magelang and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, emphasizing the shared cultural and educational values between the two nations. Following the welcome ceremony, the two heads of state held a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, solidifying the ties between Indonesia and France.
