Upon his arrival at the Élysée Palace, President Prabowo was welcomed by an honor guard, a drum corps, and President Macron, who personally walked out to greet the Indonesian leader. The two heads of state warmly embraced and shook hands before entering the palace together.
Just outside the palace entrance, the two presidents posed for photographs. President Prabowo also greeted several French presidential palace journalists covering the event.
Inside the palace, President Prabowo and President Macron sat across from one another at a round table. Photos released by the Presidential Secretariat showed the two leaders engaged in conversation while waiting for the meal. President Prabowo, noticing the familiar setting, inquired if he had dined there before, and President Macron confirmed that he had.
The dinner was held behind closed doors.
"In an elegantly arranged dining room, President Prabowo was served a series of classic French dishes. In a warm and friendly ambience, the two leaders took the opportunity to exchange views on various strategic bilateral and global issues," the Presidential Secretariat noted in its statement about the evening.
Related news: Bastille Day: Macron calls Prabowo friend, lauds Indonesian contingent
Earlier that day, President Prabowo attended the Bastille Day military parade as the guest of honor at the invitation of President Macron. He became the first Indonesian president to receive an official invitation to witness France's National Day parade from the official grandstand.
During the parade, both leaders also watched the Indonesian TNI-Polri Patriot Task Force II contingent, which was honored by leading the military procession alongside the French Armed Forces.
President Prabowo’s presence at the Bastille Day celebration, along with Indonesia’s military participation, was a key highlight of the 75th anniversary of Indonesia–France diplomatic relations, commemorated this year.
"This invitation also reflects the close defense cooperation between Indonesia and France in various areas, from defense equipment modernization and joint cross-branch military training to knowledge and technology exchange," President Prabowo stated.
Related news: Prabowo, Macron discuss Indonesia-France relations
Translator: Genta, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
