DILI, 12 august 2024 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta presided over the swearing-in ceremony for Timor-Leste’s new Ambassadors to New Zealand and South Korea at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace.
Idelta Maria Rodriguês was sworn in as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to New Zealand.
Rodriguês brings extensive experience in social development, gender equality, and public policy to her new role. Her career includes serving as the first female Secretary of State for the Promotion of Equality and as Principal Advisor to the Vice Prime Minister.
António de Sá Benevides was sworn in as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the Republic of Korea. Mr. Benevides has a distinguished career in education, international development, and public service, including roles as a Member of the National Parliament and Technical Adviser for the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources.
Both New Zealand and South Korea have been important partners in Timor-Leste’s development since independence. New Zealand’s annual aid cooperation reaches almost 21 million NZD, supporting areas such as education, agriculture, community policing, tourism, and coffee production. South Korea has provided significant support through UN peacekeeping missions, diplomatic exchanges, trade agreements, and cooperation in multiple sectors, including KOICA programs and the Employment Permit System.
President Horta expressed his confidence in the new appointees, stating, “I have full confidence that Ambassador Rodriguês and Ambassador Benevides will represent the interests of our nation and further deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Timor-Leste and New Zealand and South Korea respectively.”
Horta wished the new Ambassadors success in strengthening ties with these important regional partners and advancing Timor-Leste’s interests abroad.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
