DILI, 14 october 2024 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, met with a delegation from the Institute of Finance and Sustainability (IFS) at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. The 14-member delegation specializing in tourism and green infrastructure was led by IFS Founder and President Ma Jun, a renowned expert in green finance from China.
In the meeting, President Ramos-Horta and Ma Jun, along with the IFS delegation, engaged in discussions on the feasibility of developing a comprehensive green tourism strategy for Timor-Leste. This initiative aims to promote sustainable development through the creation of green and low-carbon infrastructure projects, including eco-friendly hotels, shopping malls, cruise terminals, and upgraded airports.
President Horta expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This green tourism strategy represents a significant opportunity for Timor-Leste to showcase our natural beauty while ensuring sustainable development. By aligning with international green finance standards, we are positioning ourselves as a forward-thinking nation committed to responsible growth.”
The initiative is designed to attract international investment from a range of sources, including multilateral development banks (MDBs), Chinese sovereign wealth funds, and private sector lenders/investors. The involvement of these global players will be crucial in financing and implementing the green infrastructure projects.
The Institute of Politics and International Affairs (IPIA), a Timorese think tank led by Fidelis Magalhães, is facilitating this process. IPIA’s primary focus is on developing a strategy with clear pathways to access financing and deepening understanding of global green financing mechanisms.
President Horta added, “We are grateful for the expertise brought by the IFS delegation and the hard work of IPIA. This collaboration will not only boost our tourism sector but also establish Timor-Leste as a regional leader in sustainable development.”
President expressed keen interest but it is the government that shapes and decides policies. Following the meeting, President Ramos-Horta hosted a cocktail reception at the Palacio Nobre to welcome Ma Jun and IFS delegation. The reception was attended by the government officials, representatives from public institutes, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the IPIA, international organizations, academia, and the private sector.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
