France and Indonesia on Wednesday signed a preliminary defence pact that could lead to new orders of military equipment from Paris, including Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines, French President Emmanuel Macron said.

JAKARTA -- Indonesia and France have signed a letter of intent to enhance defense cooperation, particularly in the development of strategic weaponry, including the procurement of Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines.

France and Indonesia called Wednesday for progress on "mutual recognition" between Israel and the Palestinians at a key meeting next month as Emmanuel Macron visited Jakarta, bringing the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation into his diplomatic efforts.