It has been more than seventy years since Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron was welcomed with a grand state reception in Jakarta as a symbol of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. The Merdeka Palace and the area surrounding the National Monument (Monas) were filled with approximately 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels, dressed neatly and waving the flags of Indonesia and France. President Macron, along with First Lady Brigitte Macron, arrived at the palace in an elaborate motorcade while being escorted with tight security, creating a ceremonial atmosphere.
President Macron exchanged warm greetings with the students upon his arrival at Merdeka Palace, where he was officially welcomed by President Prabowo Subianto. Together, the two leaders proceeded to the ceremonial grounds, accompanied by the playing of national anthems and a formal 21-gun salute. Following the welcome, Prabowo and Macron inspected the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta, with Macron acknowledging the enthusiastic students 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 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 of both nations. After the welcome ceremony, the two heads of state engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, signifying a strengthening of ties between Indonesia and France.
