More than seven decades have passed since Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947. Now, in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect, French President Emmanuel Macron received a grand state welcome in Jakarta. The grounds of Merdeka Palace and the area surrounding the National Monument (Monas) were filled with about 3,000 students from elementary to high school levels, dressed neatly and waving the flags of Indonesia and France. The motorcade carrying President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron made its way toward the palace from Monas, escorted under tight security, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere.
President Macron warmly greeted the students upon his arrival at Merdeka Palace, where he was received by President Prabowo Subianto in an official welcome. The two leaders walked together to the ceremonial grounds, with the national anthems of both countries played and a 21-gun salute as a formal tribute. Prabowo and Macron further inspected the honor guard under Jakarta’s clear blue sky, with Macron acknowledging the enthusiastic students waving miniature flags in the palace courtyard.
The ceremony was attended by ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, along with Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo. Macron’s visit to Indonesia includes a trip to the Military Academy in Magelang and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, showcasing the shared cultural and educational values between the two countries. Following the welcome ceremony, the two heads of state held a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, marking a deepening of ties between Indonesia and France.