President Prabowo Subianto has officially directed schools across Indonesia to incorporate French language learning into their curricula. This directive was announced during his state visit to the Élysée Palace in Paris, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Highlighting the robust state of bilateral relations between Indonesia and France, President Prabowo emphasized his commitment to deepening cooperation, particularly in the education sector. Reflecting on future global trends, he noted that learning French is a strategic move to prepare Indonesian students for the evolving international landscape.
“I have instructed that schools at all levels in Indonesia must learn the French language, considering future global developments,” President Prabowo stated on Thursday afternoon, May 28, 2026, during an address broadcast by the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel.
The President attributed the strength of the Indonesia-France partnership to the personal commitment of President Macron. He expressed confidence that, even amid global geopolitical uncertainty, rising tensions, and conflict, both nations are well-positioned to play a constructive and positive role on the world stage.
This visit marks a significant milestone in diplomatic relations, as it is Prabowo’s third trip to France within just five months, following previous visits in January and April 2026. During his meeting, Prabowo conveyed his gratitude to President Macron for the warm and honorable reception extended to him and his Indonesian delegation.
Reflecting on the historical bond between the two nations, Prabowo recalled the prestigious invitation Indonesia received in 2025 to attend the Bastille Day Military Parade as a guest of honor. Indonesia holds the distinction of being the first Asian nation to participate in the event. “Last year, Indonesia was granted the great honor of participating in the July 14 parade, the national day of the French Republic. I believe this was a tremendous honor,” he concluded.
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Summary
President Prabowo Subianto has mandated the incorporation of French language learning into Indonesian school curricula, an announcement made during his state visit to Paris with President Emmanuel Macron. He emphasized this directive as a strategic move to prepare Indonesian students for future global developments, underscoring a commitment to deepening cooperation with France, especially in education, due to robust bilateral relations.
During his third visit to France within five months, President Prabowo expressed gratitude for the warm reception. He also highlighted Indonesia’s distinction as the first Asian nation invited to participate as a guest of honor in the prestigious Bastille Day Military Parade in 2025, reflecting the strong diplomatic bonds between the two countries.