Billy Bagus
Jun 13, 2025
Indonesia has taken a decisive step in elevating its global tourism footprint with the recent state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron. Culminating in the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Indonesia and France, the bilateral agreement has paved the way for a robust partnership aimed at bolstering cultural preservation and advancing tourism development—particularly in key destinations such as Bali.
The bilateral agreement has paved the way for a robust partnership aimed at bolstering tourism development—particularly in key destinations such as Bali.
A Strategic Cultural Alliance
Signed at Jakarta’s historic Merdeka Palace on 28 May 2025 by Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon and French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati, the “Indonesia–France Joint Declaration on Cultural Strategy” establishes a comprehensive framework for cultural cooperation. The agreement underscores joint commitments to safeguarding cultural heritage, investing in human resource development in tourism, and enhancing the global promotion of cultural products.
Elevating Bali’s Global Profile
As Bali remains Indonesia’s flagship destination, the strengthened partnership signals a major boost for the island’s tourism prospects. The initiative is expected to accelerate infrastructure development, foster creative industry collaborations, and deepen cross-cultural exchanges that will elevate the tourist experience for French and international visitors alike.
The diplomatic agenda extended well beyond policy-making. During their visit, President Macron and the First Lady toured some of Indonesia’s most revered cultural landmarks, including Jakarta’s National Museum and the iconic Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java. These visits served as symbolic affirmations of France’s appreciation for Indonesia’s rich cultural legacy and its potential as a cornerstone of global tourism.
“Joint Vision 2050” and the Future of Tourism
In parallel to the cultural MoU, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism Widyanti Putri Wardhana convened a high-level dialogue titled “Joint Vision 2050,” which focused on long-term collaboration between France and Indonesia in the tourism sector. The outcome of the meeting has set the stage for shared investment in infrastructure, particularly in sustainable tourism initiatives, public transport expansion, and waste management solutions—longstanding issues affecting popular destinations like Bali.
Among the highlights of this newly fortified partnership is the agreement to host annual culinary exchanges. While Indonesia has successfully hosted French Gastronomy Week since 2023, the upcoming addition of Indonesian Gastronomy Week in France aims to spotlight Indonesia’s diverse and evolving culinary scene on an international stage. This gastronomic diplomacy will not only deepen cultural appreciation but also stimulate tourism and creative enterprise.
Building a World-Class Tourism Future
The dual focus on cultural enrichment and economic development underscores Indonesia’s broader mission to reposition itself as a top-tier tourism hub. With Bali at the forefront, efforts are being channeled into preserving the island’s spiritual and natural heritage while modernizing its tourism ecosystem to meet international standards.
This milestone with France comes as part of a broader diplomatic push by Indonesia, which also hosted Chinese Premier Li Qiang in the same week. France and China rank among the most influential foreign partners for Indonesia, both economically and culturally. For Bali, these bilateral relationships promise to diversify visitor demographics, drive innovation in hospitality, and create inclusive growth opportunities for local communities.
Already one of the top global destinations, Bali stands to benefit immensely from this renewed focus on international collaboration. With structured cultural programs, upgraded infrastructure, and increased tourism investment, the island is poised to become not only a sanctuary of leisure but also a beacon of sustainable and culturally rich travel. As international ties deepen, Indonesia signals to the world that its tourism future is as dynamic and diverse as the cultures it seeks to preserve and celebrate.
