More than 70 years have passed since Indonesia and France established diplomatic relations in 1947. Recently, French President Emmanuel Macron received a warm state welcome in Jakarta, highlighting the strong bond between the two nations. The ceremonial event took place at Merdeka Palace, where around 3,000 students from different school levels gathered, dressed neatly and proudly 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, surrounded by tight security, enhancing the ceremonial ambiance of the occasion.
Upon arrival at Merdeka Palace, President Macron was greeted warmly by the students and received by President Prabowo Subianto in an official welcome. The two leaders, accompanied by the playing of national anthems and a 21-gun salute, then proceeded to inspect the honor guard under the clear blue sky of Jakarta. Macron took time to acknowledge the enthusiastic students waving flags in the palace courtyard, creating a joyous atmosphere.
Attendees at the ceremony included ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, as well as Prabowo’s son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo. Macron’s visit to Indonesia also included visits to the Military Academy in Magelang and the UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur Temple, emphasizing the rich cultural and educational ties between the two countries. Following the grand welcome ceremony, President Macron and President Prabowo engaged in a closed-door bilateral meeting to discuss various strategic partnerships, signaling a deeper collaboration between Indonesia and France.
