Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Stella Christie, highlighted Bastille Day as an opportunity to further strengthen educational cooperation between Indonesia and France.

Christie emphasized that the ties between the two countries have expanded beyond formal diplomacy to broader societal dimensions.

“For years, our partnership has grown across many dimensions,” as quoted from Christie's official statement in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The deputy minister noted that bilateral cooperation is not limited to the defense and economic sectors but also encompasses long-term areas such as energy, culture, education, science, and innovation.

She remarked that institutions from both countries are actively engaged in partnerships through student mobility programs, joint research initiatives, and inter-university partnerships.

“Indonesian and French institutions are building closer ties through joint research, dual-degree programs, student exchanges, and academic collaborations,” she stated.

The cooperation reflects both countries' shared commitment to strengthening the foundation of knowledge as part of broader development efforts.

Christie stressed that education serves as a vital bridge for shaping an inclusive and resilient future for the next generation.

“What keeps this partnership alive is not only the officials or institutions but also the students, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs who build cultural bridges every day,” Christie remarked.

Her remarks coincided with President Prabowo Subianto making history as the first Indonesian head of state to attend France’s Bastille Day celebrations in Paris on Monday (July 14).

For the first time, Indonesia sent its contingent to participate in the military parade, comprising 451 military and police officers, including cadets from the Indonesian military and police academies.

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Translator: Sean Filo, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Primayanti
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