Macron’s visit to Indonesia, part of his diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, will continue until May 29. Before arriving in Jakarta, the French president visited Vietnam and is scheduled to travel next to Singapore.
Vehicles carrying Macron and his entourage arrived at the palace around 9:45 a.m. local time. They were greeted by honor guards, cavalry, and hundreds of elementary school students waving Indonesian and French flags.
On the palace veranda, President Prabowo personally greeted President Macron and the French first lady as they stepped out of their vehicle.
After a cordial handshake, the two presidents proceeded to a special stage for a welcome ceremony featuring the national anthems of both nations and a 21-gun salute.
Following this, President Prabowo invited his French counterpart to inspect the honor guards lined up neatly in the palace courtyard, before they mutually introduced their delegations.
The Indonesian delegation included Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono, State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, and Culture Minister Fadli Zon.
Several other ministers were also present during the procession.
Following the ceremonial gesture, the Indonesian president escorted the French couple into the Credential Room for a photo session and the signing of a state guest book.
The two presidents then held a one-on-one meeting in Prabowo's office.
During the meeting, Didit Hediprasetyo, Prabowo's son, accompanied First Lady Brigitte back to her vehicle.
According to the agenda, Prabowo and Macron are set to hold a bilateral meeting with their delegations, followed by the signing of several cooperation deals and a joint press conference.
President Prabowo is expected to take President Macron to Borobudur Temple and the Military Academy in Magelang, Central Java, the following day, at the French leader's request.
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Translator: Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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