DILI, 15 october 2024 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta presided over a significant diplomatic ceremony at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. The event marked the swearing-in of two new ambassadors, reinforcing Timor-Leste’s commitment to strengthening international relations.
Rui Manuel Hanjam was sworn in as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Ambassador Hanjam brings over two decades of experience in public service, economic development, and international relations to his new role. His distinguished career includes serving as Principal Adviser to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture (2018-2023), Vice Minister of Finance (2009-2012), and Vice Minister of Economy Development (2007-2009). Ambassador Hanjam has also worked extensively with regional and international organizations, including ASEAN, the World Bank, and various United Nations missions.
In his new capacity, Ambassador Hanjam will focus on enhancing bilateral relations between Timor-Leste and the UAE, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, human development, capacity building, economics, trade, and investment. He has pledged to promote Timor-Leste’s interests and foster stronger ties with the UAE, emphasizing economic development and exploring intensive investment cooperation between the two nations.
Francisco Tilman Cepeda was sworn in as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Thailand. Ambassador Cepeda is a seasoned diplomat with over two decades of experience in international relations and diplomacy. He has served as Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste (2012-2015 and 2021-2024), Ambassador to the Philippines (2008-2012), Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union (2016-2021), and Director of Multilateral Affairs and Focal Point of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
The appointment of Ambassador Cepeda builds upon the strong foundation of Timor-Leste-Thailand relations, which have flourished since Timor-Leste’s independence. Thailand has been a key partner in Timor-Leste’s development, offering assistance in areas such as agriculture, public health, rural development, tourism, education, and capacity building for government officials. The relationship has been further strengthened by Thailand’s support for Timor-Leste’s preparatory process to join ASEAN as a member state. Ambassador Cepeda is also eager to explore new areas of cooperation throughout his mission.
President Horta expressed his confidence in both ambassadors’ abilities to represent Timor-Leste effectively in their respective posts. The President stated, “Mr. Hanjam’s extensive experience in government and his deep understanding of economic development make him an ideal choice to represent Timor-Leste in the United Arab Emirates. Similarly, Mr. Cepeda’s diplomatic expertise will be invaluable in further strengthening our ties with Thailand. We are confident that under their leadership, our diplomatic relations will continue to flourish.”
The President extended his gratitude to both the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Thailand for their continued friendship and looked forward to a new chapter of enhanced cooperation and mutual prosperity with both nations.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
