The creation of the France-Indonesia High-Level Business Council (FI-HLBC) will enhance trade and investment ties between Indonesia and France, as stated by Indonesia's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin).
Chairperson of Kadin Indonesia Anindya Bakrie stated on Friday that the high-level business council, created with support from both parties, is a significant achievement in enhancing bilateral trade that continues to exhibit positive growth.
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The FI-HLBC was launched at the 2026 Indonesia-France CEO Forum in Paris on May 28, in the presence of President Prabowo and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The trade council was established collaboratively by Kadin Indonesia and the Movement of Enterprises of France (MEDEF).
"In the first quarter of this year, the trade value of our two countries reached almost US$1 billion. This is exponential growth, and I believe it is just a beginning," Bakrie stated.
Bakrie stated that economic collaboration between Indonesia and France will concentrate on trade and investment, as well as initiatives to generate new employment and improve the quality of human resources.
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He noted that the attendance of President Prabowo and President Macron at the FI-HLBC launch demonstrated the dedication of both nations to enhancing long-term economic cooperation.
"This means that businesses and governments focus on investments, trade, technological advancements, and human resources development. The business community fully supports this development," Bakrie remarked.
Bakrie mentioned that key sectors for cooperation between the two nations will encompass energy and mineral resources, development of human resources, manufacturing, education, and healthcare.
He also conveyed hope that FI-HLBC will provide increased advantages for businesses in both nations and enhance economic connections between Indonesia and France.
Earlier, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto highlighted that the bilateral relations between Indonesia and France are at an all-time high, during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris.
Prabowo emphasized that the connection is currently robust and in agreement on various international stances. He believes that this condition is closely tied to President Macron's personal backing of the Indonesia-France bilateral relationship.
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In the defense sector, he noted that the relationship between Indonesia and France is advancing very well. Collaboration in science and technology is also on the rise. In the education sector, Prabowo highlighted that the Indonesian government aims to strengthen collaboration with France.
Prabowo mentioned that he had directed schools in Indonesia to start teaching the French language. On this occasion, Prabowo also evaluated that President Macron's leadership on the global stage exhibits a strong and steady commitment to the principles maintained by the French Republic.
Additionally, the President conveyed gratitude for the hospitality shown by the French Government to him and the Indonesian delegation during their trip to Paris. Prabowo mentioned that he visited France three times this year. Moreover, Indonesia had the privilege last year of being invited to take part in the French National Day Military Parade (Bastille Day) on July 14, 2025.