Prabowo and Macron Discuss CEPA and Education
President Prabowo Subianto held a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris on Thursday, 28 May 2026. The two leaders discussed various sectors.
Previously, during a joint press statement with Macron, Prabowo mentioned several strategic issues to be prioritised, including the implementation of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
“Today, I believe we will discuss several important issues. Cooperation in defence, clean energy, education, research, and the implementation of the Indonesia-EU CEPA,” Prabowo said during a joint press statement with Macron at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, 28 May 2026, as quoted by the Presidential Secretariat on Friday, 29 May 2026.
The relationship between Indonesia and France is currently at its best phase in the history of bilateral ties, according to Prabowo. The head of state also expressed appreciation for Macron’s commitment and leadership in fostering closer partnership between the two nations.
Furthermore, Prabowo noted that Indonesia and France share similar perspectives on various global and regional issues. He stated that the positive development of bilateral relations is due to Macron’s direct support in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
“In several aspects, Indonesia and France share the same stance, and our bilateral relations are currently very strong. This is solely due to President Macron’s direct support. In defence, our relations are excellent. In science and technology cooperation, they are also strong. In education, we aim to further enhance it,” he said.
Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that President Prabowo’s visit to France was to accept Macron’s invitation. According to Sugiono, the invitation had been delayed as a suitable time for the meeting had not previously been found.
“This was a delayed invitation from President Macron. In April, a visit was expected, but the timing did not align,” Sugiono said on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, as quoted from a video statement.
The Gerindra Party Secretary-General added that President Macron subsequently extended another invitation to Prabowo. Sugiono claimed Macron proposed a new date which was agreed upon. “During the previous meeting between the two heads of state, President Macron re-issued the invitation and proposed the current date,” he said.
Sugiono added that the visit was made considering the invitation had been extended twice. He stated that Prabowo’s state visit was a reciprocal visit following Macron’s trip to Indonesia. “Since it was the second invitation, President Prabowo accepted and attended in Paris,” he said.
This visit to France marks Prabowo’s third trip within the past five months. He previously visited France in January and April.