French President Emmanuel Macron to Visit Indonesia in May to Mark 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties
JAKARTA, March 26 (Bernama) – French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Indonesia in May to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations, officials have confirmed. The planned state visit was discussed during talks between Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono and France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Central Jakarta on Wednesday.
Deepening Bilateral Relations
The ministers outlined plans for the visit and explored ways to deepen bilateral relations, focusing on key areas such as energy transition, food security, defence, digital transformation, and cultural exchange. "We agreed that the outcomes should be tangible, impactful, and involve all relevant stakeholders to further deepen our relationship," said Sugiono in a joint statement.
Economic Cooperation
On the economic front, he highlighted that French investment in Indonesia had risen, with figures showing a positive trend, reaching US$328 million last year. Both nations identified opportunities for greater cooperation in sectors such as renewable energy, critical minerals, creative industries, logistics, transport, and green infrastructure.
Defence and Security Cooperation
In the defence sector, the two countries have agreed to hold a 2+2 dialogue between their foreign and defence ministers, aimed at addressing regional and global security issues. Both sides also welcomed the French Navy’s military training mission, La Pérouse, which took place earlier this year in the Indo-Pacific region. Indonesia expressed gratitude for the French Parliament’s ratification of a Defence Cooperation Agreement and committed to strengthening defence ties. "We recognise that maritime cooperation is crucial to ensuring a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific," Sugiono added.
Global Peace Efforts
The ministers also discussed global peace efforts, with Sugiono thanking France for its continued support for peace initiatives in Palestine. On the conflict in Ukraine, Indonesia reaffirmed its call for a peaceful resolution through open dialogue and an inclusive multilateral approach.
Conclusion
France’s state visit to Indonesia in May will be a significant milestone in the two nations’ diplomatic relationship, marking 75 years of cooperation and friendship. The focus on energy transition, food security, defence, digital transformation, and cultural exchange will pave the way for a stronger and more sustainable future for both nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Indonesia in May?
A: The visit is to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between France and Indonesia.
Q: What areas of cooperation will be discussed during the visit?
A: The visit will focus on energy transition, food security, defence, digital transformation, and cultural exchange.
Q: What is the current level of French investment in Indonesia?
A: French investment in Indonesia has risen, with figures showing a positive trend, reaching US$328 million last year.
Q: What is the significance of the 2+2 dialogue between France and Indonesia?
A: The dialogue will focus on addressing regional and global security issues, including defence and maritime cooperation.