On May 28, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron met with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta during a three-day diplomatic visit aimed at enhancing defense and trade cooperation. This meeting is part of Macron's ongoing week-long tour of Southeast Asia, which seeks to solidify regional partnerships amid rising global instability.
Macron arrived in Jakarta on the evening of May 27, accompanied by French First Lady Brigitte Macron. This visit marks Macron's second stop in the region following a trip to Vietnam, where he successfully negotiated a contract for the sale of 20 Airbus aircraft to Hanoi. Macron expressed enthusiasm for strengthening ties with Indonesia, referring to Subianto as a "brother" and friend, emphasizing the strategic importance of their bilateral relationship.
Military collaboration between Indonesia and France has advanced significantly, particularly during Subianto's tenure as the country's defense minister. The two leaders previously met in November at the 2024 G20 Summit in Brazil, where discussions included Indonesia's intentions to acquire fighter jets and submarines from France. Indonesia confirmed an order for 42 French Dassault Rafale fighter jets in January 2024, with the initial delivery scheduled for early 2026. Additionally, the country has announced plans to purchase two French Scorpene Evolved submarines and 13 Thales ground control interception radars, five of which are to be installed in Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara.
During the meeting, Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin indicated that Macron and Subianto would oversee the signing of a letter of intent for the procurement of various strategic military systems. Sjamsoeddin stated, "The essence of this visit is to strengthen defense cooperation between Indonesia and France." This collaboration is critical as Indonesia seeks to modernize its military capabilities and enhance its domestic defense industry.
Subianto, who has been active in securing new military technology since his appointment as defense minister in 2019, has traveled extensively to countries including China, France, Russia, Turkey, and the United States. This international engagement is aimed at acquiring cutting-edge military weaponry and advancing Indonesia's surveillance and territorial defense. Currently, Indonesia's Air Force operates a diverse fleet of fighter aircraft from multiple countries, including the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom. However, many of these planes are nearing the end of their operational lifespan, necessitating replacement and upgrades.
In addition to defense discussions, Macron's agenda for the visit includes a meeting with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn to address regional issues and public lectures at Jakarta State University. Following the meetings, on May 29, Macron and his wife are expected to visit Borobudur, a historic 9th-century Buddhist temple in central Java, and tour a military academy before heading to Singapore. In Singapore, Macron is set to participate in the prestigious Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's foremost defense conference.
