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Indonesia, France Strengthen Defense Ties Amid Global Concerns

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on April 14, 2026, to strengthen defense cooperation.
The meeting followed Indonesia's defense pact with the United States and an oil deal with Russia, underscoring Malacca Strait leverage.
They discussed buying defense equipment and advancing energy transition initiatives.
Indonesia considered a United States overflight clearance request, which could signal alignment with Washington against Beijing.

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Story summary

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on April 14, 2026, to strengthen defense cooperation.
The meeting followed Indonesia's defense pact with the United States and an oil deal with Russia, underscoring Malacca Strait leverage.
They discussed buying defense equipment and advancing energy transition initiatives.
Indonesia considered a United States overflight clearance request, which could signal alignment with Washington against Beijing.