Macron and Prabowo agree to strengthen France-Indonesia relations

Macron announces state visit and major bilateral projects with Indonesia this May.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Élysée Palace in Paris, France, on July 24, 2024. Photo by Andrea Savorani Neri/Nur

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Emmanuel Macron and Prabowo Subianto agree to strengthen France-Indonesia relations through a series of wide-ranging collaborations that reflect both countries’ shared ambitions on the global stage. The French President confirmed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday that he had spoken directly with Indonesia’s President-elect and Defense Minister, Prabowo Subianto, about building a forward-looking partnership. Macron also revealed that he will pay a state visit to Indonesia at the end of May to further cement the growing alliance between the two countries.

“France and Indonesia have agreed to work together on ambitious and forward-looking projects,” Macron said, underscoring the importance of unity and cooperation in an increasingly complex global landscape. The message signals a major diplomatic step for both nations and offers a glimpse into a renewed and dynamic bilateral relationship.

State visit planned for May

Macron's upcoming state visit to Indonesia is expected to be a historic milestone in France-Indonesia diplomacy. As one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most influential economies, Indonesia has long been seen as a crucial partner in France’s Indo-Pacific strategy. With the appointment of Prabowo Subianto as Indonesia’s next president, France is eager to engage in high-level cooperation to advance mutual interests in various sectors.

The visit will serve not only as a diplomatic gesture but also as a platform to launch new collaborative frameworks in defense, scientific research, education, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Macron emphasized that this trip would help lay the foundation for long-term cooperation rooted in mutual trust and shared values.

Strong focus on defense and strategic industries

One of the major pillars of the cooperation is defense. France and Indonesia are expected to increase defense collaboration, building on previous agreements such as the sale of Rafale fighter jets and joint military training initiatives. For France, boosting security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific aligns with its broader geopolitical interests in the region.

Indonesia, on the other hand, is striving to modernize its military while asserting regional stability and sovereignty. Prabowo, as Defense Minister and now President-elect, has consistently shown interest in strengthening Indonesia’s defense capabilities through international partnerships—making France a strategic ally.

Beyond hardware procurement, the cooperation is likely to include technology transfers, joint research, and knowledge-sharing to enhance both nations' defense industries.

Economic cooperation and the energy transition

Alongside defense, economic cooperation stands as a central theme in Macron and Prabowo’s discussions. France envisions Indonesia as a key partner in building a sustainable and resilient economic future—especially in critical sectors such as renewable energy and industrial manufacturing.

Macron highlighted the importance of developing a resilient value chain, particularly in critical minerals—resources that are vital for batteries, electric vehicles, and clean energy technologies. Indonesia, with its abundant reserves of nickel and other essential metals, plays a vital role in global supply chains.

Both leaders share a vision of supporting the global energy transition. France, as part of the European Union, aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and transition toward greener sources of power. Indonesia, meanwhile, has set ambitious climate targets and is eager to attract foreign investment and technology in support of its energy agenda.

With this in mind, France and Indonesia are expected to announce joint projects focusing on renewable energy, including solar, wind, and geothermal power, as well as infrastructure development to support energy storage and grid modernization.

Science, education, and cultural exchange

Macron and Prabowo also discussed expanding cooperation in science, academia, and culture. A key part of this will be fostering student exchanges, research partnerships between universities, and collaborative innovation initiatives.

For France, Indonesia represents a growing market of young, talented individuals interested in studying abroad and participating in global innovation ecosystems. Strengthening academic ties can lead to long-term collaboration in health, environmental science, digital technologies, and more.

Cultural diplomacy will also play a role. From film and literature to art and language, both countries see value in promoting mutual understanding through cultural exchange programs. France already has a strong cultural presence in Indonesia through its French Institutes and educational programs, which are expected to grow under the new agreement.

Shared vision for global peace and stability

Emmanuel Macron and Prabowo Subianto agree to strengthen France-Indonesia relations not only for mutual benefit but also for the broader goal of global peace. Macron emphasized the two nations’ shared commitment to upholding peace and security around the world, with a particular focus on two critical areas: the Middle East and Ukraine.

“Together, we share the same determination to promote peace and security in the Middle East and to end the war of aggression waged by Russia against Ukraine,” Macron declared. The statement highlights both countries’ diplomatic alignment on major global conflicts, and their willingness to work together on peace initiatives.

France and Indonesia will also co-host a conference on Gaza this coming June, aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis and finding a pathway to sustainable peace. This initiative reflects Indonesia’s active role in the Muslim world and France’s interest in playing a balanced role in Middle East diplomacy.

By joining forces, both countries hope to bring diverse voices to the table and advocate for peaceful solutions to some of the world’s most complex conflicts.

Building a resilient future together

Macron’s closing words in his announcement summed up the spirit of the new chapter in France-Indonesia relations: “The future is built through strong partnerships, open trade and a shared vision.” That vision is becoming more tangible through concrete commitments in defense, economy, education, and global peacebuilding.

For Prabowo, who will soon assume the presidency, this early show of international engagement signals his administration’s intent to be both globally active and locally strategic. His rapport with Macron also suggests a personal diplomacy style that values long-term partnerships over transactional deals.

As May approaches, all eyes will be on Macron’s visit and the official agreements that will follow. One thing is clear: the relationship between France and Indonesia is poised for a bold transformation.

In the months ahead, the world will witness whether this ambitious collaboration can truly set a new standard for international partnerships in the 21st century.