Timor-Leste and the European Union Conduct Second Partnership Dialogue Under the Samoa Agreement
On November 24th, 2025, in Brussels, Timor-Leste and the European Union held their second Partnership Dialogue under Article 3 of the Samoa Agreement to assess progress in bilateral cooperation and define priority areas for continued joint efforts.
The meeting offered a chance to review the initiatives developed since the first Partnership Dialogue, held in Dili in 2024, and to analyse the main political, economic, and social developments observed by both parties. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of Timor-Leste and the European Union to strengthen their partnership based on the principles of a rules-based international order, with particular emphasis on the central role of the United Nations and the effectiveness of multilateralism. 
The dialogue tackled the global repercussions of the war in Ukraine, economic security, and the necessity to promote a green and resilient transition. Both sides highlighted the importance of addressing shared challenges, including climate change, economic uncertainties, and regional stability.
Timor-Leste reported on its progress in implementing its sustainable development agenda and the priorities established following its formal accession to ASEAN on October 26, 2025. In this context, the European Union expressed its willingness to enhance technical and institutional support to help maximise the benefits of Timor-Leste's new status as an ASEAN member state.
The meeting also discussed issues related to the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. Timor-Leste shared the progress achieved in good governance, emphasising actions to promote gender equality and combat gender-based violence. 
In the field of bilateral and regional development cooperation, ongoing projects under the Global Europe Instrument (NDICI) for 2021-2027 were reviewed, along with opportunities linked to the Global Gateway strategy.
Discussions also covered global issues such as climate change, the environment, and ocean governance, with both parties recognising the urgency of implementing the outcomes of COP30 and setting a new climate finance target beyond 2025.
On the economic front, Timor-Leste and the European Union discussed the status of the interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA) and its potential to boost trade and investment flows if Timor-Leste moves forward with the accession process.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, and the Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog, jointly chaired the meeting.
Cooperation between Timor-Leste and the European Union will continue within the framework of the Samoa Agreement and the mechanisms designed to enhance political dialogue, promote sustainable development, and strengthen the bilateral partnership.
