Timor-Leste Takes Part in High-Level Dialogue on Transition of Least Developed Countries in Cambodia
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, took part in the High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on the sustainable transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from March 31st to April 2nd, 2026, as part of the mid-term review of the Doha Programme of Action for Least Developed Countries (2022–2031). On the sidelines of the event, he conducted bilateral meetings with government representatives and United Nations officials. 
The dialogue was organised by the Government of Cambodia, in collaboration with the United Nations, including the Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The initiative aimed to conduct a mid-term review of the regional implementation of the Doha Action Programme, focusing on identifying measures to ensure sustainable transition processes.
In his remarks, the Minister expressed his appreciation for the forum and highlighted that the review aims to find practical ways to facilitate transitions that foster greater resilience in a challenging international environment. He noted that, for Timor-Leste, this process presents an opportunity to strengthen the foundations of a more diversified, resilient, and inclusive economy, in line with the 2011–2030 Strategic Development Plan.
The Minister also highlighted Timor-Leste's experience, noting that sustainable growth requires deeper economic transformation, strengthened domestic capacities, and predictable partnerships aligned with national priorities. He also emphasised that countries in transition continue to face structural challenges, including limited economic diversification and capacity constraints, necessitating continued support from development partners for institutional strengthening and access to financing and technology.
On the sidelines of the event, he met with Cambodia’s Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Prak Sokhonn. The meeting centred on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new areas of cooperation, particularly in the fields of the economy, trade, tourism, and education.
The Minister also met with Rabab Fatima, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, and they discussed Timor-Leste’s priorities under the Doha Action Agenda, its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, and its national engagement in multilateral platforms.
As part of the bilateral agenda, he also attended a meeting with Cambodia’s Minister of Commerce, Cham Nimul, during which opportunities for economic and trade cooperation were discussed, including the organisation of a business and investment forum between the two countries.
