Prabowo and Macron Strengthen Strategic Partnership in Defence and Economy - BCA Securities

French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed his commitment to strengthening strategic relations into a global partnership across various sectors with Indonesia during President Prabowo Subianto’s state visit to the Elysee Palace in Paris on Thursday (28 May) local time. In a joint statement, Macron described Indonesia as a key strategic partner for France in the Indo-Pacific region. ‘Indonesia is a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific, and I believe this is also part of President Prabowo’s conviction,’ Macron said in a statement from the Presidential Secretariat’s BPMI, quoted in Jakarta on Friday. In defence and security, Macron highlighted the close cooperation between the two nations, marked by the arrival of the first Rafale fighter jets in Indonesia. He described this as tangible evidence of the evolving strategic relationship. ‘Yesterday, the first Rafale fighter jets arrived in Indonesia, which is proof of this relationship and today’s discussions, and also a testament to the desire to continue advancing along this path,’ he said. Macron also stressed the importance of strengthening economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Indonesia and France, as well as the European Union. He expressed hope that the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) would be swiftly implemented to accelerate trade and investment flows in strategic sectors such as transportation, healthcare, energy transition, and defence. Macron also expressed appreciation for Indonesia opening its market to French dairy and beef cattle sectors. Additionally, Macron welcomed Danantara’s investment plans as part of strengthening economic ties between the two nations. In culture and education, both leaders committed to deepening cooperation previously bolstered by a joint cultural strategy declaration at Borobudur Temple in May 2025. This collaboration spans museums, literature, film, fashion, and enhanced scientific, technological, and university partnerships under the France-Indonesia Innovation Year 2026. ‘France aims to welcome more students, researchers, and talents,’ Macron said. On international issues, Macron and Prabowo exchanged views on the Middle East situation, the Ukraine conflict, and tensions in the South China Sea and Southeast Asia. Macron paid tribute to Indonesia’s active role in promoting peace and international dialogue. ‘I wish to pay tribute to your bold stance for peace in the Middle East and for recognising Palestine. I also wish to commend your military’s involvement in safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty,’ he said.