The French Embassy in Jakarta hosted an official launch event on December 11, 2024, marking the beginning of a year-long celebration commemorating 75 years of diplomatic ties between France and Indonesia. Held at the French Embassy Residence in Menteng, Central Jakarta, the event highlighted the enduring partnership that began on January 4, 1950.

Strengthening Strategic Ties
French Ambassador to Indonesia, Fabien Penone, emphasized the growth of bilateral relations over the decades, which culminated in a strategic partnership signed on July 1, 2011. This collaboration spans politics, defense, security, economy, education, research, culture, development, and environmental sustainability.

"Since 1950, our bilateral ties have continued to grow stronger and more diverse," said Ambassador Penone during the unveiling of the commemorative logo for the 75th anniversary. He also highlighted the recent meetings between French President Emmanuel Macron and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, including their discussions in Paris and Rio de Janeiro earlier this year. These meetings aimed to inject renewed energy into the bilateral partnership, focusing on contemporary challenges and opportunities.

Cultural Bridges and Key Figures
Ambassador Penone paid tribute to French cultural, scientific, and artistic figures who have played significant roles in strengthening ties with Indonesia over the past 150 years. A book dedicated to these cultural bridges, authored by Alexis Salatko with illustrations by Aline Zalko, is set to be published by Éditions Denoël in 2025.

Notable attendees included prominent figures from various fields, such as fashion designer Ragowo Hediprasetyo Djojohadikusumo, writer Ayu Utami, actress Asmara Abigail, and Nugroho Dwi Hananto, Director of Research Vessel Management at BRIN. Their presence underscored the deep and multifaceted connections between the two nations.

A Year of Collaborative Initiatives
The 75th anniversary celebrations aim to launch new cooperative programs and foster greater cultural and societal exchanges between France and Indonesia. Ambassador Penone remarked, “This milestone is an opportunity to make France more familiar to Indonesians and Indonesia more familiar to the French, while encouraging more dynamic interactions between our civil societies.”

The upcoming year will feature exhibitions, educational initiatives, and events across Indonesia, further solidifying the partnership. Highlights include promoting French culture in Indonesia and encouraging Indonesian cultural presence in France, reflecting a reciprocal relationship of understanding and collaboration.

Looking to the Future
The celebration is not just a reflection on the past but a platform for new beginnings. The partnership between France and Indonesia serves as a model of diplomatic success, grounded in mutual respect and shared goals. As both nations prepare for another chapter of collaboration, the focus remains on innovation, cultural enrichment, and sustainability.

Ambassador Penone concluded, “This is more than a commemoration. It is a chance to envision and shape the next 75 years of friendship and cooperation.”