Macron and Prabowo deepen ties

French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Élysée Palace in Paris for talks aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across defense, energy, agriculture and transport, marking the visit exactly one year after Macron’s trip to Indonesia. Leaders on both sides framed the partnership as increasingly relevant, with Macron stressing stronger ties and Prabowo highlighting shared interests in regional and global stability.

Defense cooperation featured prominently, with discussions covering potential joint exercises, technology transfers and procurement to modernize Indonesia’s forces while expanding France’s strategic presence in the Indo‑Pacific. Prabowo emphasized Indonesia’s aim to diversify defense partnerships and boost domestic industrial capacity through joint production and technology sharing.

Energy security and economic collaboration were central themes. Officials explored renewable energy projects, possible nuclear cooperation, and investments in sustainable infrastructure as Indonesia advances its energy transition. The meeting also addressed trade and transport links, including aerospace and critical infrastructure, with both leaders indicating interest in expanding bilateral investment and moving several agreements toward implementation.

Regional security concerns shaped the dialogue: Macron and Prabowo discussed the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, noting the direct impact these crises have on global energy prices and supply chains—factors that have prompted Indonesia to increase its fuel subsidy budget to protect domestic consumers. Both leaders underscored the importance of stability in the Middle East and open sea lanes for global trade.

French officials framed the talks as part of a broader European push to engage more deeply with the Indo‑Pacific on economic and security matters, while Indonesian leaders portrayed the visit as consistent with Jakarta’s more active regional role. Delegations described the discussions as productive, with several initiatives expected to progress to implementation in the coming months, reflecting growing strategic convergence on defense, energy and infrastructure between Paris and Jakarta.