Foreign Minister Reveals Reasons for Prabowo’s Paris Visit
Foreign Minister Sugiono explained the reasons behind President Prabowo Subianto’s state visit to Paris, France. Sugiono stated that French President Emmanuel Macron had twice invited Prabowo for an official state visit.
‘This was an invitation from President Macron that was previously delayed. I believe it was in April when the visit was expected to take place, but the timing wasn’t suitable,’ Sugiono said in a video statement received on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
Sugiono added that the first invitation from Macron could not be accommodated due to scheduling conflicts. Subsequently, Macron re-invited Prabowo to Paris for the current schedule, which was fulfilled this week.
‘During our President’s visit to Paris, it also served as a meeting between the two heads of state. President Macron again extended the invitation and proposed the current date. Since it has been extended twice, this is the second time President Prabowo has accepted the invitation,’ Sugiono said.
‘And his presence in Paris is part of the state visit to the country, as a reciprocal visit following President Macron’s trip to Indonesia,’ he added.
Prabowo arrived at Orly Airport in Paris, France, on Tuesday, 26 May, at approximately 10:00 local time. His arrival marked the commencement of the official state visit to France.
Eid al-Adha Prayer in Paris
During his visit, Prabowo performed the Eid al-Adha prayer for 1447 Hijriah at the Indonesian House in Paris. He prayed in congregation with Indonesian citizens and the Indonesian diaspora residing in France.
According to the Presidential Secretariat’s Bureau of Press, Media, and Information on Thursday, 27 May, at around 08:40 local time, Prabowo arrived at the Indonesian House accompanied by takbir chants. He then proceeded to the prayer line to join the congregation in reciting takbir before the Eid al-Adha prayer.
The prayer was conducted solemnly and attended by Indonesian citizens and diaspora who had gathered at the Indonesian House since morning. Accompanying Prabowo were his son Didit Hediprasetyo, Investment Minister and BPI Chief Danantara Rosan Roeslani, and Presidential Chief of Staff Teddy Indra Wijaya.