“A planned state visit by President Prabowo to France will take place in the near future,” Sugiono said at a press conference here on Wednesday.
He explained that President Prabowo had visited Paris on April 14 to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in a closed-door meeting.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in various sectors deemed necessary to be intensified.
Sugiono noted that one area of cooperation is the defense industry sector, considering that Indonesia procures primary weapon systems from France.
In addition, discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation in education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), to support technology transfer and enhance mastery of defense equipment technology.
“This would enable what is referred to as ‘beyond procurement’ cooperation. We are not merely purchasing, but also undertaking technology transfer and gaining technological mastery of the equipment we acquire,” Sugiono said.
He added that cooperation between the two countries also covers the energy sector, utilization of critical minerals, creative economy, infrastructure, and transportation.
Personal ties
According to him, the personal relationship between President Prabowo and President Macron serves as one of the key assets in strengthening Indonesia-France relations.
“France is a strategic partner of Indonesia. The enhancement of this comprehensive strategic partnership is currently under discussion, and it is expected that the scope of cooperation with France will become broader and more strategic,” he said.
Prabowo has visited France three times since assuming office as President.
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Translator: Fathur, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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