Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. French President Emmanuel Macron described France’s relationship with Indonesia as both strategic and friendly during his arrival in Jakarta on Tuesday evening (27/5/2025).

“I’m happy and very excited to be here. Indonesia is a beautiful country,” he told reporters at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. “I remember meeting President Jokowi two years ago in Bali, and now I’m here with my wife and delegation. We’re glad to be back.”

President Macron said he had spoken with Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and was looking forward to meeting President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday. 

“He is a good friend of mine,” he added, as quoted by antaranews.com.

President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived in Jakarta at 10 pm. after departing from Hanoi, Vietnam. They were welcomed by Minister Sjafrie, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, and Deputy Governor of Jakarta Rano Karno.

Traditional Betawi dance and music greeted the French delegation. President Macron is scheduled to visit Jakarta and Magelang on Wednesday and Thursday, including a formal welcome at Merdeka Palace on Wednesday

(mg/inp/pr/nm)