A Heartfelt Surprise from TNI for the Deputy Military Governor of France

SUARA NEGERI | JAKARTA — In a display of military camaraderie and cultural diplomacy, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Patriot Task Force II Contingent celebrated the 58th birthday of Brigadier General Antoine de Loustal, Deputy Military Governor of Paris, during the 2025 Bastille Day Parade joint exercise at Satory Military Base on Friday (July 11, 2025).

Brigadier General de Loustal—who has played a key role in supporting the TNI delegation from their arrival at Orly Airport through the course of the joint exercise—was treated to a warm and unexpected celebration by TNI personnel and TNI Academy cadets.

The event opened with a rousing performance of the TNI Patriot chant and the traditional Balinese Kecak Dance. This was followed by a rendition of "Happy Birthday" by Blyra Lokananta and the ceremonial presentation of a birthday cake by Indonesian Defense Attaché to France, Air Vice Marshal Anang Nurhadi Saputra.

As a highlight, the event concluded with a vibrant collaborative performance of a Papuan traditional dance by both TNI and French military personnel—symbolizing unity, cultural appreciation, and enduring military brotherhood across nations.

“This is a true form of culture-based defense diplomacy,” said Contingent Commander Brigadier General Ferry Irawan. “Military relations are forged not only through training, but through closeness and mutual understanding,”

The celebration was part of TNI’s broader engagement in the 2025 Bastille Day activities, underscoring Indonesia’s growing role and presence in international defense diplomacy, including participation in the prestigious parade of honor on the Champs-Élysées on July 14. (*)