Indonesian Forces Shine at Bastille Day Parade
Nation’s Image Boosted by Prestigious French Military Display
Indonesia’s armed forces have earned high praise for their stellar performance leading the 2025 Bastille Day Parade in France, significantly elevating the nation’s global standing.
A Resounding Success on the Global Stage
General **Agus Subiyanto**, Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), commended the Patriot II Task Force officers for their exceptional focus and execution during the prestigious event. “You have carried out your duties well with remarkable focus. Your performance has certainly placed Indonesia in the global spotlight,” he stated.
The task force’s participation is expected to further solidify the strong relationship between Indonesia and France. **Agus Subiyanto** highlighted how the contingent’s presence has opened new pathways for continued cooperation, particularly within the defense sector, ensuring the enduring strength of bilateral ties.
Praise and Encouragement for the Troops
Upon their return, the commander urged the task force members to continue their dedicated service to the nation. “On behalf of the nation and the state, we thank you for your excellent performance in France. Now, it is time to return to your units and continue safeguarding our security,” **Subiyanto** remarked.
A combined contingent of 491 personnel from the TNI, National Police (Polri), and their respective academies formed the Patriot II Task Force. They proudly led the march along the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris as a key part of France’s national day festivities.
A Moment of National Pride
The Indonesian contingent, featuring impressive drum band and majorette units, performed the stirring national song *Maju Tak Gentar*. Their march concluded at the high-level stage where Indonesian President **Prabowo Subianto** and French President **Emmanuel Macron** were seated. Both leaders acknowledged the troops’ performance with President **Prabowo** standing in attention and saluting, while President **Macron** offered applause.
I am proud that the TNI contingent took part in the military parade along the Champs-Élysées, opening the event with a drum band performance. I thank the French government for the invitation and appreciation. #BastilleDay #IndonesiaFrance pic.twitter.com/042sO15zYJ
— Prabowo Subianto (@prabowo) July 14, 2025
President **Prabowo** shared his pride on Instagram, stating, “I am proud that the TNI contingent took part in the military parade along the Champs-Élysées, opening the event with a drum band performance.” President **Macron** echoed this sentiment, expressing his pleasure in seeing Indonesian and French soldiers marching together.
This successful joint military display aligns with broader diplomatic efforts. In 2024, bilateral trade between France and Indonesia reached an estimated €8.1 billion, showcasing robust economic ties that can be further bolstered by enhanced defense cooperation (Source: French Ministry of Economy, Finance and Recovery, 2025).
Deepening Diplomatic Horizons
The event underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, extending beyond military parades to encompass vital areas like defense cooperation, as recently discussed by the Indonesian and French Navies. President **Prabowo**’s diplomatic tour, which included visits to multiple countries, also highlights Indonesia’s active role in international relations.
