French President Macron Arrives Jakarta for Strategic Partnership Talks with Indonesia

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, arrived in Jakarta on May 27, 2025, as part of a Southeast Asian tour following their visit to Vietnam. Macron expressed his delight at returning to Indonesia and highlighted the strategic and friendly relationship between France and Indonesia. During his visit, Macron is scheduled to meet Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, including defense cooperation, energy transition, food security, and cultural exchange. Defense ties are a central focus, with ongoing deals such as the $8.1 billion Rafale fighter jets contract and submarine purchases discussed, though deliveries have yet to begin. Macron's itinerary also includes a visit to the Magelang Military Academy, where he will inspect a French language laboratory training Indonesian cadets, and a visit to the Borobudur Temple accompanied by President Prabowo. The visit marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and aims to deepen strategic partnerships across multiple sectors.