President Prabowo, President Macron Strengthen Strategic Synergy Between Two Countries

President Prabowo Subianto pays a state visit to the Élysée Palace in Paris, France, Thursday (05/28).

In a joint press statement, President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron appreciated President Prabowo Subianto’s state visit to Paris, which took place exactly one year after Macron’s state visit to Indonesia.

President Macron affirmed both nations’ commitment to strengthen strategic relations into a broader and deeper global partnership amid global geopolitical dynamics. President Macron viewed Indonesia as an important strategic partner for France in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Indonesia is an important strategic partner of the Indo-Pacific, and I am sure President Prabowo thinks the same way,” President Macron said.

In the defense and security sector, President Macron highlighted the close cooperation between both countries, marked by the arrival of the first Rafale fighter jet in Indonesia. President Macron described this as evidence of the continuously developing strategic relationship.

“The first Rafale fighter jet had arrived in Indonesia, which becomes evidence of this relationship and today’s discussion. This is also evidence of the desire to continue advancing along this path,” Macron stated.

Beyond defense, President Macron also emphasized the importance of strengthening economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Indonesia and France and with the European Union. He expressed hope that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Indonesia and the European Union will be implemented soon to accelerate trade and investment flows across various strategic sectors.

“This is important to be implemented soon to remove barriers for trade and investment, to accelerate in transportation, health, energy transition, and defense,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s opening of its market for the French dairy and beef cattle sectors. Moreover, he welcomed Danantara’s investment plan as part of strengthening both nations’ economic relations.

In the culture and education sector, both leaders are committed to deepening cooperation through the joint declaration of cultural strategy at Borobudur Temple in May 2025. The cooperation covers museum, literature, film, and fashion sectors, up to strengthening scientific, technological, and university collaboration in the France-Indonesia Innovation Year 2026.

“France wants to welcome more students, researchers, talents,” said President Macron.

In discussions on international issues, President Macron and President Prabowo also exchanged views regarding the Middle East situation, the conflict in Ukraine, to tensions in the South China Sea and Southeast Asian region. He offered respect for Indonesia’s position, which was assessed as actively fostering peace and international dialogue.

“I want to give respect for your brave position for peace in the Middle East, and also for the recognition of Palestine. I also want to give respect for Indonesian soldiers’ involvement to continue acting for Lebanon’s peace and sovereignty,” said President Macron.

Regarding the Southeast Asian region, President Macron affirmed that ASEAN holds an important position in France’s and the European Union’s Indo-Pacific strategy. Therefore, France is ready to continue cooperating with Indonesia in facing various global and regional challenges.

“At all partnership levels between Indonesia and France, this is very relevant, and this will strengthen both our countries’ vision toward peace in the current world order,” President Macron remarked. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (EST/AW)