President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, warmly welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron at the Indonesian Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang. The two leaders arrived together at the academy, showcasing a symbolic diplomatic moment after sharing a helicopter ride from Yogyakarta International Airport. Dressed in matching white shirts, they walked towards a Maung tactical vehicle, with President Prabowo taking the wheel and President Macron seated beside him. This gesture demonstrated their camaraderie and mutual respect. The visit was marked by full military honors, including Honor Guards, Mounted Cavalry, and local students waving flags, making it a highlight of Macron’s official state trip to Indonesia.
President Prabowo had extended a personal invitation to Macron to observe cadet education and training at the academy, underscoring the importance of enhancing bilateral defense cooperation between Indonesia and France. The visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the two countries, with a specific focus on defense capabilities and human resource development in the military sector. This visit marks a significant step towards deeper cooperation and collaboration in defense and military affairs between Indonesia and France, setting the stage for future engagements.