The Vice-Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, accompanied President of the Republic José Ramos-Horta on a visit to Singapore from September 4th to 6th, 2026, during which they participated in the Horasis Visionary Circle 2026.
The international meeting, themed “Leading Through Uncertainty” and hosted by Vickers Venture Partners, brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and international figures to discuss the challenges of leadership and responsibility, and to define long-term strategies in a context marked by geopolitical, economic, and technological shifts.
The meeting’s agenda covered, among other topics, the global economic outlook, Singapore’s role in the international economy, the relationship between wealth and responsibility, the governance of artificial intelligence, and Timor-Leste’s economic diversification.
On the first day, the President of the Republic took part in a special session moderated by Baron Woolley of Woodford, a member of the United Kingdom’s House of Lords.
During his participation in the forum, Vice-Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay addressed Timor-Leste’s historical experience and highlighted the struggle of the Timorese resistance, led by Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, the current Prime Minister.
In his remarks, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay emphasised the roles of leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to national unity in reorganising the resistance and mobilising the population to achieve independence. He also recalled the coordination among the Armed Front, the Clandestine Front, and the Diplomatic Front, and their joint contribution to the national liberation struggle.
Throughout the meeting, President José Ramos-Horta also presented Timor-Leste’s perspective as a bridge between Southeast Asia and the Pacific, highlighting investment opportunities in the country, particularly in energy, tourism, and sustainable development.
The Head of State noted that “Timor-Leste stands at a unique crossroads, not only as a young nation consolidating its democracy but also as a potential bridge between the dynamism of Southeast Asia and the vast potential of the Pacific.”
Participation in the Horasis Visionary Circle 2026 offered an opportunity to present Timor-Leste’s experience and national perspectives on economic development, diversification, and regional cooperation to business leaders and international participants.