French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed his country’s commitment to a strong and respectful cultural partnership with Indonesia during his visit to Borobudur Temple alongside Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

In his speech at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Macron expressed deep admiration for Indonesia, describing Borobudur as a symbol of civilization, tolerance, and international collaboration.

“Borobudur is a spiritual and architectural masterpiece that demonstrates Indonesia’s cultural excellence,” Macron said before ministers and delegates from both nations.

He added that the cooperation between the Indonesian government and UNESCO in preserving the temple reflects a commendable spirit of multilateralism.

The visit also marked the launch of a strategic cultural partnership between France and Indonesia, which focuses on two key pillars: the preservation of world heritage and the development of creative industries.

Macron said that France is eager to share its expertise in heritage conservation and looks forward to welcoming Indonesian cultural professionals to foster mutual learning.

“Indonesia has an extraordinary cultural heritage, and we are happy to contribute. We want to be a trusted partner, a friend, and an ally,” Macron noted.

Selfie moment with journalists

In a rare and cheerful moment during an official state visit, President Prabowo and President Macron also posed for a spontaneous group selfie with journalists at Borobudur Temple.

The interaction occurred after President Prabowo guided President Macron on a tour of the world’s largest Buddhist temple, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the two leaders wrapped up their visit, local reporters covering the event eagerly called out, “Pak President, selfie, please!”

Responding to the request, President Prabowo playfully performed a brief silat move − his signature gesture − before joining Macron and the group of journalists for a selfie session. The friendly atmosphere was further elevated when Prabowo’s son, Didit Hediprasetyo, joined in and snapped additional photos using his personal phone.

Smiles and laughter filled the air as the presidents and the press enjoyed the unscripted moment, rarely seen during formal diplomatic engagements. “Thank you, Pak President!” the journalists shouted as the leaders concluded the photo session.

President Macron’s visit to Borobudur was part of a broader state itinerary curated by President Prabowo to introduce the French leader to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.

The visit to Borobudur highlighted Indonesia’s efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with France not only through economic and defense partnerships but also through cultural diplomacy.