ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – French President Emmanuel Macron praised Indonesia’s warm and enthusiastic welcome as he began his state visit to Jakarta on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Speaking alongside Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace, Macron emphasized that France and Indonesia share a deep alignment of values in building a more just and peaceful global order.
“I want to thank President Prabowo and the people of Indonesia for the exceptional welcome during this official visit,” President Macron said at the start of his address.
During their bilateral meeting, both leaders underscored a mutual commitment to defending sovereignty, upholding international law, and rejecting double standards in global diplomacy.
Macron reaffirmed France’s firm stance on the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, while also commending Indonesia’s active diplomatic role in promoting sustainable peace.
“I deeply appreciate President Prabowo’s clear and courageous statements. Indonesia’s engagement shows its important global responsibility,” Macron noted.
Strengthening Maritime and Defense Cooperation
One of the key topics discussed was the enhancement of France–Indonesia maritime cooperation. Macron formally invited Indonesia to participate in the upcoming United Nations Ocean Conference to be held in Nice, France. The conference aims to foster global partnerships in ocean sustainability and maritime security.
“Together, we are building a partnership to protect our oceans and maritime routes,” said Macron.
In addition to maritime affairs, Macron welcomed progress in strategic defense cooperation between France and Indonesia, including joint initiatives in defense technology and arms procurement.
He also highlighted the need to secure global supply chains and bolster strategic independence in the face of global uncertainties.
President Macron reiterated France’s support for Indonesia’s clean energy transition. He stated that €450 million of France’s €500 million commitment via ASEAN has already been allocated to support key projects in solar and hydrogen energy.
“France is proud to support Indonesia as a leader in renewable energy. These projects represent the future of our partnership,” Macron said.
The French leader also stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in culture, education, and investment. He expressed support for Indonesia’s growing economic presence in France and reaffirmed France’s commitment to finalizing the Indonesia–EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU–CEPA).
He also voiced his backing for Indonesia’s national free nutritious meal program, seeing it as a shared priority in social development.
France and Indonesia: Allies for a Better Future
In closing, Macron delivered a powerful message on the enduring bond between the two nations.
“Despite the distance, my message is simple: France stands with Indonesia. We share common ideas about the kind of world we want to create,” he affirmed.
To further symbolize this friendship, Macron extended a special invitation to President Prabowo to attend France’s Bastille Day celebrations in Paris on July 14, as an honored guest.
“I would be delighted to see the Indonesian Armed Forces march alongside ours during the Bastille Day parade. It would be a strong symbol of our deepening partnership,” said Macron.
President Macron’s visit marks a new chapter in the France–Indonesia strategic relationship, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to working hand-in-hand toward a peaceful, sustainable, and equitable global future. (AT Network)
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