The Minister of Justice, Sérgio de Jesus Fernandes da Costa Hornai, accompanied by the Director of the Criminal Investigation Scientific Police (PCIC), Vicente Fernandes e Brito, met in Lisbon on October 14^th, 2024, with representatives of the Portuguese Judicial Police to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two institutions. 

 The main objective of the meeting was to discuss strategies to strengthen collaboration in the area of justice, especially in the criminal investigation sector. During the meeting, initiatives were discussed to promote the exchange of experiences and investigation techniques, as well as the implementation of new joint initiatives to combat transnational crimes and organized crime. 

 Strengthening this cooperation will increase the efficiency and investigative capacity of Timor-Leste’s PCIC, ensuring a more effective response in the fight against organized crime and other complex criminal activities. 

 Minister Sérgio Hornai emphasized the importance of initiatives like this to consolidate the bilateral relationship between Timor-Leste and Portugal, promoting the exchange of knowledge and good practices between the two nations. Strengthening institutional co-operation will contribute to the continued development of the PCIC and to security and stability in Timor-Leste.