The Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, held a series of meetings, on August 14^th, 2023, at the Government Palace, with the ambassadors of Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, and Australia, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties, discuss bilateral issues, and align cooperation with these countries following the 9th Constitutional Government’s priorities defined in its Programme.

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Timor-Leste and Indonesia promote economic development in border regions

 At the meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia in Timor-Leste, Mr Okto Dorinus Manik, several bilateral issues were discussed, emphasising the establishment of cross-border free trade zones, which are in the process of preparation by technical teams from both countries. These cross-border free trade zones aim to boost the economic development of the border regions between Timor-Leste and Indonesia. This initiative aims to facilitate and promote cross-border trade and bilateral cooperation by promoting, developing and strengthening trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.

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Brazil aims to strengthen and expand cooperation with Timor-Leste 

Maurício Medeiros Assis, Ambassador of Brazil to Timor-Leste, in the meeting with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, reiterated his commitment to continue and broaden the existing cooperation with Timor-Leste. During the meeting, several areas of cooperation were addressed, such as education and vocational training, justice, military, health and agriculture.

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Enhancing cooperation with the Philippines to strengthen human resources and the national agricultural sector 

The Ambassador of the Philippines to Timor-Leste, Ms Belinda M. Ante, highlighted her country’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste in various areas aligned with the Government’s priorities, especially in strengthening human resources in the public and agricultural sectors. She also informed the Prime Minister regarding the plans to attract investors from the Philippines to Timor-Leste.

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Timor-Leste and Australia consolidate bilateral relationship

The Prime Minister also welcomed the visit from the Australian Embassy Chargé Affaires in Timor-Leste, Ms Caitlin Wilson, to discuss bilateral cooperation in line with the 9th Constitutional Government’s priorities.

During the meeting, the diplomat expressed Australia’s willingness to support the 9th Government in achieving its priorities and to further strengthen bilateral relations throughout the term.