The government is making final preparations to host French President Emmanuel Macron in his three-day State visit from May 27 to 29, 2025, with a symbolic tour of Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, being among the highlights of the itinerary.

The visit, which marks Macron’s first official trip to Indonesia, is expected to deepen strategic ties between the two countries across various sectors, including infrastructure, defense and cultural cooperation.

Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto is set to accompany President Macron to the iconic Buddhist monument as part of efforts to showcase Indonesia’s cultural heritage.

“The President wants to be a good host and to highlight the richness of Indonesian culture. That’s why Borobudur is chosen,” Dody said in a press briefing at his office, on Monday, May 26, 2025.

While specific details of the leaders’ bilateral discussions remain undisclosed, Dody noted that the visit underscores the importance of government-to-government engagement.

In anticipation of the visit, enhancements are being made to the temple's access routes, including the installation of a stair lift and an escalator to accommodate time constraints and provide ease of mobility for the visiting head of state.

“Because this is a state visit, time is very limited. The French government requested access to Borobudur, so facilities are being adjusted accordingly,” Presidential Communication Office (PCO) chief Hasan Nasbi, told reporters, on Monday.

He clarified that the stair lift and temporary pathway upgrades are intended to ensure Macron can ascend to the upper levels of the temple without the physical strain typically experienced by tourists.

The temple complex, managed by state-owned tourism holding InJourney under the Ministry of Culture, remains off-limits to the general public during the preparation period.

Dody emphasized that the Public Works Ministry's role is limited to the surrounding area, particularly ensuring that roads and public infrastructure leading to the temple remain in optimum condition.

Aside from Borobudur, Macron and Prabowo are expected to visit the Indonesian Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, Central Java, with a private luncheon scheduled before concluding the day’s program.

The State visit follows a recent high-level engagement with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and is seen as a strategic move in Indonesia’s broader foreign policy direction, balancing global partnerships amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

In addition to cultural diplomacy, discussions on infrastructure investment from European countries are expected to be on the agenda, particularly in areas such as water management, waste treatment, and sustainable urban planning.

Dody expressed optimism over potential support from European partners, noting previous cooperation with countries like the Netherlands and Germany.

“Europe brings not only capital but also technology and knowledge, elements we need to address pressing infrastructure challenges,” Dody said.

The State visit by Macron is expected to reaffirm Indonesia’s strategic partnerships in Europe while reinforcing the nation’s commitment to cultural preservation, innovation, and inclusive development.

Separately, Dody also addressed the ongoing restructuring of the Public Works Ministry following its recent split, announcing a phased rollout of new appointments for structural positions.

“This is part of an organizational refresh, ensuring we remain proactive, dynamic, and adaptive in facing future challenges,” he said.