Jakarta, June 5 -- Indonesia is expanding cooperation with France in higher education, science and technology after both countries agreed to deepen research collaboration and academic exchanges following leaders' talks last month.

The initiative followed President Prabowo Subianto's visit to France in late May, where he met French President Emmanuel Macron and agreed to strengthen research and academic partnerships.

The cooperation aims to develop solutions for development challenges facing both countries.

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto welcomed the partnership, particularly efforts to promote research with practical benefits.

"Indonesia's biodiversity and mineral resources can be combined with France...