The Indonesia-France cooperation continues to deepen as French President Emmanuel Macron visits Jakarta for a bilateral meeting with President Prabowo Subianto. The visit, held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, marks a new chapter in strategic relations as both nations pursue joint efforts in nuclear energy, creative industries, and clean energy development. Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties, Indonesia and France reaffirmed their commitment to advancing long-term partnerships in innovation and sustainability.
Indonesia-France Cooperation Reaches New Milestone
During Macron’s visit, both governments signed several memorandums of understanding (MOUs) across critical sectors. A key meeting between Macron and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Chairman Anindya Bakrie focused on future collaboration in nuclear technology.
“Today, with France’s advancement in nuclear technology, we will certainly discuss it as well. Small and medium reactors,” Anindya said during the Indonesia Maritime Week in Jakarta, as reported by Wartaekonomi.co.id.
The high-level discussions reflect the evolving strategic alliance between the two countries. France, known for its leadership in nuclear innovation, stands as a valuable partner in Indonesia’s clean energy roadmap. Both leaders also emphasized economic resilience, defense cooperation, and sustainable growth in their talks.
Exploring Nuclear Energy Partnership
As part of the Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL) 2025–2034, Indonesia aims to expand its energy capacity by 69.5 gigawatts. Approximately 76% of this target will come from renewable energy sources, including nuclear power. The collaboration with France marks a significant step toward achieving this goal.
“It takes about 10 years to build a nuclear reactor, and maybe 1–2 years just for the tender process and others,” Anindya explained. His statement underscores the complexity and long-term nature of nuclear energy development.
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia previously announced that Indonesia has designated two initial sites for nuclear power plants. Each reactor will have a capacity of 250 megawatts and will be located in Sumatra and Kalimantan.
“So, two locations, in Sumatra and Kalimantan, will be for nuclear,” said Bahlil during the RUPTL launch conference.
This initiative signals Indonesia’s readiness to adopt cleaner energy technologies while ensuring energy security for future generations.
Creative Economy Also Gains Attention
Aside from energy, the creative economy also took center stage during Macron’s visit. Indonesia and France agreed to strengthen cooperation in games, film, animation, fashion, and culinary sectors. The agreements aim to boost cultural exchange and economic opportunities across both markets.
“The cooperation covers several creative economy sectors, including games, film, animation, fashion, and culinary arts. These will be the focus areas signed,” said Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya.
The partnership also emphasizes the development of human resources through education, residency programs, and internships. These initiatives will allow creative professionals to gain experience abroad and apply best practices locally.
“There is cooperation in education and residency. These involve creative industry workers who get internships there and also do the same here,” he added.
Clean Energy and Strategic Development
France’s advanced technology and expertise offer Indonesia a reliable partner in clean energy collaboration. The two nations also plan to hold joint festivals and exhibitions to celebrate and showcase their creative industries.
“Later this afternoon, the Minister of Culture from France will meet at the Ministry of Creative Economy office, and there will be activities starting one month from now,” said Riefky as cited from Investor.id.
In addition to cultural projects, discussions between Macron and Prabowo highlighted cooperation in digital transformation, food security, and defense. These strategic areas align with Indonesia’s national development goals and global sustainability commitments.
Strengthening Long-Term Bilateral Ties
The bilateral meeting between Macron and Prabowo represents a pivotal moment in Indonesia-France cooperation. As both countries look toward the future, their shared vision encompasses clean energy, creative innovation, and sustainable growth. With agreements already in motion, this renewed alliance promises lasting benefits for both economies and their people.
Macron’s visit not only celebrates 75 years of partnership but also opens doors for a forward-thinking collaboration grounded in mutual respect and strategic alignment.
Source: wartaekonomi.co.id, investor.id
Image: Getty Images
