Government of Timor-Leste

Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão visited the research vessel OceanXplorer, docked at the Port of Tibar in Liquiçá municipality, on Saturday, November 8^th. The visit marked the beginning of the international scientific mission “OceanX Timor-Leste 2025: Exploring the Edge – The Timor Passage,” which runs from November 8^th to 22^nd along the northern coast of Timor-Leste and the Ataúro Island region. 

The mission results from a partnership between OceanX— a non-profit organisation based in the United States and supported by Dalio Philanthropies— and the Government of Timor-Leste, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock, and Forestry, with collaboration from several international universities and scientific institutions, including King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), the University of Florida, the University of Western Australia, Macquarie University, Flinders University, and Ocean Alliance.

During the visit, the Prime Minister was accompanied by the Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister of Economic Affairs, and Minister of Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, along with other members of the Government and the National Parliament. The delegation had the opportunity to learn about the OceanXplorer's technological capabilities and hear explanations from the scientific team about the mission's objectives, which combine marine science, technology, education, and communication to increase knowledge of the ocean and promote its sustainable management.

The OceanXplorer is regarded as one of the most advanced oceanographic research vessels globally, equipped with cutting-edge laboratories, submersibles capable of reaching depths of up to 6,000 metres, drones, imaging systems, and artificial intelligence platforms that facilitate species identification and real-time data analysis.

The OceanX Timor-Leste 2025 expedition will investigate the deep waters north of Dili and Atauro Island—one of the most biodiverse and least explored regions of the Coral Triangle—where the Pacific and Indian oceans converge. Researchers will gather data on biodiversity, ocean currents, habitats, and species, enhancing understanding of the country's marine ecosystems.

The results achieved will establish a robust scientific foundation for the Timorese marine ecosystem and inform future policies on research, conservation, and management of ocean resources. The mission will also enhance cooperation between Timor-Leste and international research institutions, strengthening national scientific capacity and connecting the country to global marine science and exploration networks.

Over the weekend, OceanX opened the doors of the OceanXplorer to Timorese students, researchers, and journalists, offering guided tours that highlighted the educational and scientific potential of the programme.

OceanX's presence in Timor-Leste marks a significant milestone in the sustainable development and utilisation of the country's marine resources, reinforcing the Government's commitment to promoting sustainable growth and protecting the marine environment as key pillars of the blue economy.