DILI, 24 feberuary 2023 (TATOLI) – Japan has been an active supporter of Timor-Leste’s national development, says the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta.
Horta said the Government of Japan provides assistance through JICA and also via UN Agencies, the World Bank, and Asian Development Bank (ADB).
“JICA is a lender to Timor-Leste, providing a loan for $68.7 million for the construction of roads. JICA is also committed to financing and constructing a new terminal building, utilities, and electricity substation at the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport through a Grant financing of $44.4 million. Work is expected to complete by end of 2024 or early 2025. This will finally provide Timor-Leste with a modern international airport,” he explained.
Horta pointed out that other ongoing engagements by Japan with Timor-Leste in the area of sustainable development include, Human Resource Development (JDS), such as the Scholarship program (Master’s Degree) planned at US$2,856,565.77.
In addition, Horta stressed that Japan also contributed to increasing Farmers’ Households’ Income through Strengthening Domestic Rice: “The project aims at the improvement of irrigation management, rice productivity, market access for farmers, purchasing system and storage management of MCIACost at US$2,812,209.44.”
“This is not an exhaustive list which illustrates the Japanese Government and people’s commitment to the well-being of the people of Timor-Leste.”
The Head of State highlighted that Japanese civil society organizations have also been active in support of small coffee farmers through yield improvement and export.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
