DILI, 10 august 2024 (TATOLI) – At the invitation of the President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, Droupadi Murmu, President of India, made a historic State Visit to Dili from august 10 to 11, 2024. This marked the first-ever visit from an Indian Head of State to Timor-Leste, underscores the mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Horta extended a warm welcome to President Murmu at the International Nicolau Lobato Airport, followed by an official state welcome at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. In recognition of this momentous occasion, President Ramos-Horta conferred Timor-Leste’s highest honor, the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, upon President Murmu.
The two Heads of State engaged in productive bilateral discussions, focusing on strengthening ties across various sectors including technology, agriculture, health, defense, infrastructure, and education. Both leaders expressed their commitment to advancing diplomatic relations based on mutual trust and respect. They also discussed the establishment of embassies in their respective countries, set to occur later this year, further solidifying the growing partnership between Timor-Leste and India.
During the visit, Timor-Leste and India signed Memoranda of Understanding on visa waivers for diplomatic and service passports, cooperation between national broadcasters, and a cultural exchange program.
President Ramos-Horta hosted a state banquet at the Palácio Nobre de Lahane in honor of President Murmu. In his speech, President Ramos-Horta highlighted India’s remarkable economic development and its potential as a model for Timor-Leste’s own growth aspirations. President Ramos-Horta stated:
“I believe that India’s focus on STEM education has been a key factor in its growth. This is exemplified by the numerous global leaders that the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have produced, ranging from technocrats in government to leaders of multinational technology companies. It is my hope that with the support and guidance of India, Timor-Leste will be able to emulate this success by building a similar technological institute to boost our human resource capacity. India’s continued guidance, support, and encouragement in education will be instrumental in our preparations for ASEAN accession in 2025.”
Today, Timor-Leste is considered one of the most vibrant democracies in Southeast Asia. This is a testament to the courage, resilience, and bravery of the Timorese people who have achieved this despite a challenging road to independence. India was one of the earliest countries to recognize Timor-Leste as an independent nation in 2002. In these 22 years, Timor-Leste has stood out as a shining beacon of democracy and pluralism.
President Murmu congratulated Timor-Leste on the adoption of the roadmap for its full membership in ASEAN during the 42nd ASEAN Summit in 2023. She also emphasized the shared historical and cultural ties between the two nations, stating:
“I believe that opening resident missions in both countries will further enhance our ties, truly giving the Delhi-Dili connection a boost. Looking to the future, India remains committed to partnering with Timor-Leste in its journey towards progress and development. India will continue to be a force for global peace and prosperity in keeping with its ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family. I’m confident that Timor-Leste will be a trusted friend and partner in this journey.”
Timor-Leste and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation, pledging to build a future that is prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable for their people and generations to come.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Camilio de Sousa
