Macron Praises Prabowo and Indonesian Troops at 2025 Bastille Day Parade

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: French President Emmanuel Macron extended high praise to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and the Indonesian military-police contingent that participated in the 2025 Bastille Day military parade held in Paris on July 14.

President Prabowo attended France’s national day celebrations as the guest of honor at the personal invitation of President Macron. The event, held along the iconic Champs-Élysées, featured the Indonesian joint contingent leading the prestigious military procession.

In a message posted in Indonesian on his official X account @EmmanuelMacron on Tuesday, the French leader wrote, “Thank you for attending our national day celebrations, friend Prabowo. I am proud to see Indonesian soldiers marching alongside our troops.”

President Macron also recalled his recent visit to Indonesia in May, during which he met with French-learning cadets at the Indonesian Military Academy in Magelang, Central Java. “I have a fresh memory of my May visit, especially when I was at the Military Academy in Magelang at the heart of Java Island, where I met Indonesian soldiers who were learning French,” he noted.

Macron expressed hope that Indonesia’s participation in France’s national day would further strengthen bilateral relations. “From Jakarta to Paris, our strategic partnership will endure and grow stronger,” he stated.

President Prabowo observed the parade from a special podium alongside President Macron, First Lady Brigitte Macron, and senior French officials. The Indonesian contingent—officially named the Patriot II Task Force—opened the parade with a 451-member formation comprising military and police personnel, including cadets from their respective academies.

Accompanied by a drum band and majorette unit, the Indonesian troops marched proudly to the tune of Maju Tak Gentar, Indonesia’s patriotic song. President Prabowo stood in solemn attention and saluted the contingent, while President Macron applauded their performance.

“It is an honor for me to be invited directly by French President Emmanuel Macron to attend the Bastille Day celebrations, France’s national day,” President Prabowo said. “I am proud of the Indonesian contingent for its participation in the military parade.”

The Indonesian contingent’s historic participation symbolizes the deepening defense and diplomatic ties between France and Indonesia, underscoring a shared commitment to global peace and cooperation.