Paris — Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) troops, under the joint Patriot II Task Force, took center stage at France’s Bastille Day parade on Monday (14 July), delivering an impressive marching and cultural performance along the historic Champs-Élysées in Paris.

In a moment broadcast live on the Élysée Palace YouTube channel, the Indonesian contingent stood out with a vibrant display featuring mascots representing each military branch—a leopard, a shark, and an eagle—symbolizing the Army, Navy, and Air Force, respectively.

President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, and French President Emmanuel Macron observed the parade from the main tribune. Prabowo gave a salute as the Indonesian troops passed by, while Macron responded with enthusiastic applause, acknowledging the striking performance of his Southeast Asian guest.

The 500-member Indonesian contingent comprised 451 personnel from the TNI and cadets from Indonesia’s military and police academies. They had arrived in France on 6 July 2025 to prepare for the event.

Bastille Day, observed every 14 July, commemorates the Storming of the Bastille in 1789, a defining moment of the French Revolution. This year’s celebration also marks the 100th anniversary of La Flamme, the Eternal Flame beneath the Arc de Triomphe, and the Bleuet de France, a national symbol honoring fallen soldiers and war victims.

Indonesia’s participation in the annual celebration highlights the growing strength of Indonesia–France bilateral relations and serves as a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to defense diplomacy grounded in peace, solidarity, and international cooperation.