Prabowo praises Macron's leadership: France consistently takes a bold stance
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris on Thursday evening (28 May 2026) WIB. Following the official state welcoming ceremony, Prabowo expressed his appreciation for Macron’s reception.
‘Firstly, I convey my heartfelt gratitude and highest regards for the warm, honourable reception extended to me and my delegation,’ he said.
Prabowo noted he has visited France three times this year. Last year, Indonesia was honoured to participate in the parade commemorating France’s national day on 14 July.
‘This is a great honour. Perhaps the first Asian nation to parade in Europe,’ Prabowo stated.
The head of state added that Indonesia-France relations are now at their best. He expressed gratitude and respect for Macron’s leadership.
‘President Macron’s international leadership demonstrates that France consistently takes a bold, principled stance. Indonesia and France share similar positions on several matters,’ Prabowo said.
State welcoming ceremony
Earlier, Prabowo arrived atLes Invalides in Paris at 15:30 local time onThursday (28 May 2026). His arrival was marked by a solemn state welcoming ceremony from the French government.
According to a government communication statement, Prabowo wore a grey suit paired with a black peci. Upon arrival, he was greeted by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.
The welcoming ceremony took place atLes Invalides grounds. Prabowo saluted the Indonesian and French national flags as Indonesia’s national anthem, ’ Indonesia Raya’, and France’s ’ La Marseillaise’ were played.
Following the anthem ceremony, Prabwo introduced the Indonesian delegation accompanying him. The delegation included his son, Didit Hediprasetyo, Foreign Minister Sugiono, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, and Indonesian ambassador to France Mohamad Oemar.
After the delegation introduction, Prabwo mounted a French military command vehicle to inspect the honour guard. From the vehicle, he saluted the neatly aligned ranks of troops.
Following the inspection, Prabwo’s motorcade proceeded to the Élysée Palace, accompanied by 146 mounted French cavalry and 27 motorised personnel.