TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that many French artists are inspired by the culture and beauty of Indonesia while attending a dinner at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on May 28, 2025.
In front of President Prabowo Subianto, Macron praised the hospitality and welcoming of Indonesian people during his visit. According to him, the closeness of France and Indonesia is not a coincidence. He mentioned that despite the 12,000 kilometer distance between the capital of France and Indonesia, they are connected by history and destiny.
"Evidence shows that for two centuries, travelers, artists, businessmen, and researchers have never stopped admiring your country," said Macron during a gala dinner at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on May 28, 2025.
Macron mentioned a list of famous French writers, music composers, and even photographers. For example, the renowned poet Arthur Rimbaud who wrote about wandering around Semarang, Tuntang, and Salatiga. Then, the romantic music composer Claude Debussy who was interested in hearing Sundanese gamelan during the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution in Paris in 1889. Macron stated,
"He was inspired by it to imbue the poetry of your archipelago into Western music," said Macron.
Macron also mentioned artist and photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson. Henri Cartier-Bresson was an expert in candid 35-millimeter camera photography. Macron said Henri captured Balinese dance. He even had a Javanese dancer wife named Ratna Mohini.
"These cultural mediators lay the foundation for our relationship. Just like the flow of workers and students, engineers and families from France and across the oceans, who have lived and worked here to bring our nations closer," said Macron.
Macron also quoted an Indonesian proverb, "Little by little, eventually becomes a hill." He said that over time, the friendship between France and Indonesia continues to grow. He mentioned that France recognized the independence of the Republic of Indonesia 75 years ago, and the revolution that occurred became an inspiration for the world to stand independently.
"Therefore, there are so many things that bind our two countries," he said. "And that is the essence of our partnership in defense, security, and culture."
On Thursday, Macron said that he would visit the French Language Laboratory at the Magelang Military Academy founded by Prabowo. There, he said, France and Indonesia will discuss mutual cultural exchange.
"That is why I want you to be an honored guest for the upcoming July 14 (Bastille Day) celebration, so that you can participate in the parade. Together we will succeed," said Macron.
When he first arrived in Jakarta, Macron said he was happy to be able to visit Indonesia again during his three-day state visit on May 27-29, 2025.
Macron and Brigitte landed at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base at 9:50 PM, Tuesday night, May 27, 2025. The French presidential Airbus A330-200 aircraft arrived in Jakarta after departing from Hanoi, Vietnam.
Before getting into the car, Macron took the time to speak briefly to the media. He said he was happy to be back in Indonesia after previously attending the G20 Summit in Bali two years ago.
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