The Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment, Gastão Francisco de Sousa, is taking part in the 15^th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF), which runs from June 19^th to 21^st at the Cotai Expo of the Venetian Macau. 

During the forum, Minister Gastão de Sousa  joined a session on green development and sustainable infrastructure projects in Portuguese-Speaking Countries (PLP), which covered cooperation opportunities, financial cooperation, the advantages and experience of chinese companies, and prospects for future cooperation. 

In his speech, the Minister emphasised the strategic importance of infrastructure for Timor-Leste’s sustainable development, stating that the country is “at a crucial moment in its development journey”. He also said that “our Strategic Development Plan (SDP) 2011-2030 describes our roadmap for transforming Timor-Leste into an  upper-middle income country by 2030”, with a focus on “social capital, economic development and infrastructure development as catalysts for growth”. 

The Minister emphasised that the main national prorities include improving transport networks, developing sustainable energy solutions, expanding access to drinking water and sanitation, investing in digital infrastructure and promoting balanced urban and rural development. He also argued that “modern, efficient and resilient infrastructure is essential to unlocking our full potential’ in order to “facilitate trade, attract investment and improve the quality of our people life. 

Gastão de Sousa said that “the road to sustainable development is paved with collaboration, innovation and strategic investment” and expressed national interest “in exploring opportunities for public-private partnership (PPPs), joint venture and knowledge exchange to advance the sustainability and resilience infrastructure agenda”.

Jointly organised by the China International Civil Construction Association (CHINCA) and Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), the 15^th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF) bring togoether more than 3,000 industry representative from over 70 countries and regions.