Merdeka Palace in Jakarta became the focal point of international diplomacy as French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron, accompanied by the French presidential entourage, were welcomed with a grand state ceremony. Today marks President Macron’s highly anticipated visit to Indonesia, highlighting the increasingly close ties between Indonesia and France.
State Banquet and Toast to Friendship
The highlight of the diplomatic visit was a state dinner, where Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto gave a warm welcome. He invited guests to raise their glasses in honor of the French President and First Lady, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries. President Prabowo’s words, “Vive la France! Vive la Indonesia!” encapsulated the spirit of friendship and mutual respect that underscored the visit.
President Macron reciprocated the sentiment by emphasizing the historical and cultural ties that have long bound Indonesia and France. Citing iconic French figures such as Rimbaud, Debussy and Cartier-Bresson, Macron spoke of how French art has been inspired by Indonesia’s rich natural and cultural beauty. “The closeness I feel tonight is no coincidence,” he said, acknowledging the deep historical ties.
Visit to Magelang Military Academy
The next day, the focus shifted to the Magelang Military Academy in Central Java, where the two presidents interacted with cadets studying French. President Macron praised their efforts in learning French, saying, “Thank you for learning French. This is a true commitment to building bridges between our two countries.”
As a symbolic gesture, President Prabowo escorted President Macron around the academy in a Pindad-made “Maung” vehicle, which showcased Indonesia’s defense technology advancements. The visit was further honored by the French government, as President Prabowo received the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour from President Macron himself.
Cultural Exploration at Borobudur Temple
The spiritual and cultural highlight of the visit was a pilgrimage to Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While exploring the ancient 8th-century monument, the two presidents reflected on the shared values of peace and diversity embodied by the temple’s architecture and philosophy. President Prabowo emphasized the inclusive ethos of Pancasila, which is in line with the tolerance depicted in the Borobudur reliefs.
President Macron, recognizing the cultural synergy fostered by the people of both countries, quoted an Indonesian proverb to symbolize the growing bond: “Little by little, it becomes a hill.” This metaphor aptly describes the increasingly close Indonesia-France relationship that has been fostered over the years.
Shared Vision 2050: Strategic Partnership for the Future
The visit concluded with the signing of the Joint Vision 2050, a roadmap to enhance the Indonesia-France strategic partnership ahead of the centenary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The ambitious declaration includes 21 cross-sector agreements such as energy, defense, nutrition, culture, and tourism.
These agreements, representing a total economic value of $11 billion, underscore the commitment to deepening ties between the two countries. “France is a key partner for Indonesia in modernizing its defense equipment and a friend in building a sustainable future,” President Prabowo said. President Macron echoed this sentiment, describing the bilateral relationship as a thriving partnership in culture, science and innovation.
Shared Destiny
This historic state visit marks more than just ceremonial diplomacy; it signifies a shared vision for a prosperous and connected future. With Borobudur as a symbol of spiritual strength and the Shared Vision 2050 as a blueprint for collaboration, Indonesia and France are ready to sail the winds of history and destiny, hand in hand.
Credits:
Penulis: Kristantyo Wisnubroto
Redaktur: Untung S
