Prabowo's France Visit Planned Since Last Year

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at Orly Airport in Paris, France, on Tuesday (26 May) at approximately 09:50 local time. His arrival marked the commencement of the official state visit to France. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated the visit had been planned since last year, though the schedule was adjusted multiple times. ‘This arrival signifies the start of President Prabowo’s state visit to France, whose invitation was scheduled last year but underwent several reschedulings,’ Teddy said in a statement. Upon arrival at Orly Airport, Prabowo was greeted by French Minister of Labour and Solidarity Jean-Pierre Farandou and a guard of honour waiting at the aircraft stairs. Hundreds of Indonesian citizens in France also showed enthusiasm, gathering at the hotel where Prabowo was staying since morning to welcome the head of state. The government hopes this official visit will further strengthen the strategic relationship between Indonesia and France, which has been established across various sectors. Teddy noted that both countries have numerous important partnerships that continue to develop. ‘Indonesia currently has many super strategic collaborations with France, and this state visit is expected to further bolster Indonesia’s position in Europe, particularly in France,’ he said. According to Teddy, the bilateral relations between Indonesia and France also complement each other in global dynamics. Indonesia is seen as a key gateway from Europe to Asia, while France plays a crucial role as a bridge from Asia, particularly Southeast Asia, to Europe. ‘Indonesia is one of the main gateways for Europe-Asia relations, while France is a vital gateway for Asia, especially Southeast Asia, to Europe,’ he added. Before commencing the official state visit agenda, President Prabowo is scheduled to perform the Eid al-Adha prayer and meet with Indonesian citizens at the Indonesian Embassy in Paris.