Macron in Indonesia seeks to deepen trade, defence ties

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Indonesia on Wednesday as part of his Southeast Asian tour, aiming to strengthen trade and defense relations between the two nations. This visit marks the second stop in his three-country itinerary, highlighting France's strategic interest in the region. Macron's agenda includes meetings with Indonesian President Joko Widodo and key government officials to discuss potential collaborations in various sectors. The talks are expected to focus on expanding bilateral trade, with France seeking to increase its economic footprint in Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy. Both nations are keen to explore opportunities in renewable energy, infrastructure development, and digital technology. Macron's visit underscores France's commitment to fostering economic partnerships that align with Indonesia's growth aspirations and environmental goals. In addition to trade, defense cooperation is a pivotal aspect of Macron's visit. France is looking to bolster its defense ties with Indonesia, emphasizing joint military exercises and potential arms deals. This aligns with Indonesia's efforts to modernize its military capabilities amid regional security challenges. By deepening these ties, France aims to reinforce its presence in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to peace and stability while advancing mutual interests.

— Authored by Next24 Live