Prime Minister meets with lawyer and diplomat Pierre-Richard Prosper to strengthen collaboration for national development
The Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, and the Minister of Finance, Santina Cardoso, met with US lawyer and diplomat Pierre-Richard Prosper on October 27th, 2023, at the Ministry of Finance. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss collaboration between the Government and Pierre-Richard Prosper in various areas to boost national development. 
Pierre-Richard Prosper is an American expert who provides legal support to several countries, including Timor-Leste, focusing on strengthening public systems in the economy, infrastructure development, the oil sector, finance and other justice-related sectors.
Over the years, the diplomat has supported the Government of Timor-Leste in resolving maritime and land border disputes, following the principles of international law, and representing the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in matters related to investments and infrastructure development in the petroleum sector. 
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão considered the meeting “very positive”, highlighting the importance of sharing experiences for the success of the national government programmes that the Government intends to implement during its mandate. He also said that “Pierre-Richard has been fundamental for Timor-Leste in supporting legal issues and other matters” and that today “he has come again to discuss various issues where we need support”.
Pierre-Richard Prosper emphasised the long-standing relationship with the Prime Minister and Timor-Leste since his first visit in 1999. He also said that the “objective is to continue to collaborate with the Government, with the Prime Minister and with Timor-Leste, to support the country in making progress towards improving the living conditions of the Timorese and the growth of the country”.
The US lawyer and diplomat considered this a “very positive meeting” “to assess how it can contribute and help” Timor-Leste in various areas, namely in the development of infrastructure, including communications, schools, hospitals, as well as improving the justice sector”.
