Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto disclosed that during his meeting in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron, they engaged in discussions regarding enhancing collaboration in defense, energy, and the creative economy.
This meeting reflects Jakarta's efforts to bolster its strategic relationships with prominent European allies.
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“Areas discussed include defense procurement and strengthening the defense industry, energy transition and renewable energy development, infrastructure and transportation, as well as education and the creative economy,” Prabowo says.
Based on a statement provided by Indonesia's Government Communications Office in Jakarta, Prabowo remarked in a social media update that he engaged in discussions with Macron at the Elysee Palace to pursue increased collaboration in key areas advantageous to their respective nations.
“As an important partner in Europe, Indonesia continues to promote sustainable cooperation with France to open new, concrete and mutually beneficial opportunities for both countries,” he adds.
He stated that Indonesia considers France to be a crucial strategic ally in Europe for the promotion of deeper and enduring bilateral collaboration. At the Elysee Palace, Prabowo received a ceremonial welcome with a guard of honor and a military band, while Macron personally greeted him in the courtyard after observing from the palace terrace.
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Prabowo arrived in Paris on the evening of Monday, April 13th, at 11:50 p.m. local time, following the conclusion of a number of diplomatic meetings in Moscow, Russia.
The trip to Paris represents a further step in Indonesia's strategic diplomatic efforts in Europe, building on recent extensive discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.
During their discussions, the Presidential Secretariat highlighted that the two leaders shared perspectives on addressing global challenges. After their private meeting, President Macron organized a formal dinner for the President of Indonesia.
The Presidential Secretariat characterized the event as an integral component of top-tier diplomacy aimed at bolstering the personal ties between the leaders and laying the groundwork for a bilateral partnership. During the meeting with President Macron, President Prabowo was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.
After a lengthy five-hour meeting with President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, the president proceeded to visit Paris. The Cabinet Secretary elaborated on the significance of the meeting between Prabowo and Macron, highlighting it as a key platform for the Indonesian leader to discuss his strategic perspectives on global geopolitical dynamics, particularly focusing on the ongoing disputes involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
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Prabowo's second visit to Paris in 2026 signifies an important return after his initial trip in January, where he graciously accepted an invitation from Macron for a formal meeting and dinner at the prestigious Élysée Palace. Last July, he visited Paris to witness the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) contingent marching alongside French soldiers in honor of Bastille Day along the Champs-Élysées.