Indonesia and France Strengthen Bilateral Ties Through Defense and Technology Cooperation President Prabowo Subianto met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on April 14, 2026, to advance cooperation between Indonesia and France in defense, infrastructure, education and critical minerals utilization. The meeting, described as a tête-à-tête at the Élysée Palace, marked Prabowo’s third visit to France during his 18 months in office. Foreign Minister Sugiono announced during a press conference at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, that Prabowo is scheduled for another state visit to France in the near future. While no specific date or purpose was disclosed, Sugiono emphasized the personal rapport between the two presidents as a “substantial asset” to bolster bilateral relations. During their April 14 meeting, Presidents Prabowo and Macron discussed strengthening collaboration in defense equipment procurement, defense industry development, energy transition, renewable energy infrastructure, transportation, education, and the creative economy. Prabowo shared these details via his official Instagram account @presidenrepublikindonesia, with subtitles confirming the sectors addressed. Sugiono noted that the discussions included the utilization of critical minerals, reflecting Indonesia’s strategic interest in partnering with France on technology transfer and sustainable resource management. The foreign minister did not elaborate on timelines or agenda for the upcoming visit but affirmed that planning is underway. The continued engagement underscores France’s role as a key partner in Indonesia’s military modernization and broader strategic development goals. Both nations aim to deepen ties through concrete projects in high-technology sectors, building on existing defense and industrial cooperation frameworks.
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