DILI, 12 February 2025 (TATOLI) – António da Conceição ‘Kalohan’ was sworn in as the new Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, Switzerland.
The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, at the Presidential Palace, today.
Kalohan replaced Maria de Lourdes Martins de Sousa Bessa, who has been in the job since 2021.
Prior to his appointment to Geneva, Kalohan had held several Ministries in the government, including the Minister of State, Coordinator of Social Affairs, Minister of Education, and Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Environment. As of 2021, he was a member of the National Parliament.
In December 2023, Kalohan was sworn in as Timor-Leste’s ambassador to Indonesia but was dismissed from his post after Timorese magistrates charged him with the crime of economic participation in business and sentenced him to five years in prison.
In April 2024, the Court of Appeal found Kalohan innocent and acquitted him of the crime of economic participation in business.
Following the swearing ceremony, Kalohan pledged to elevate and strengthen the bilateral cooperation and friendship between Timor-Leste and Switzerland.
He said that he would continue the diplomatic work done by Timor-Leste’s former Ambassadors to Geneva.
“I also want to strengthen our bilateral relations with other international organizations based in Geneva, including the WTO,” he said.
With a Master’s degree in International Relations and Strategic Studies from Lancaster University and specialized diplomatic training from prestigious UK institutions, including Oxford University and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Ambassador Kalohan is exceptionally qualified for this role. As a founding member of the Democratic Party and a multilingual leader fluent in four languages, his diverse experience in international development and strategic planning positions him well to represent Timor-Leste’s interests globally.
“Ambassador Kalohan brings exceptional qualifications and extensive experience to this vital diplomatic role,” stated President Ramos-Horta. “His distinguished career in public service, combined with his deep understanding of international relations and development, makes him the ideal representative to further strengthen our multilateral relations with United Nations in Geneva and our partnership with Switzerland, a nation that has consistently supported Timor-Leste’s development journey since 2002.”
Switzerland has demonstrated strong support for Timor-Leste through various channels, including financial support for the nation’s Permanent Mission and development projects focused on enhancing essential services in rural communities. Ambassador Conceição’s mandate will focus on expanding cooperation in key areas including rural development, essential services, and human security initiatives.
Since joining the UN in 2002, Timor-Leste continues its commitment to the organization’s core missions: maintaining peace and security, protecting human rights, and promoting sustainable development. Ambassador Conceição aims to enhance partnerships with fellow UN members, support multilateral engagement, and promote international collaboration.
As Timor-Leste approaches its anticipated ASEAN accession in 2025, this diplomatic appointment reinforces the nation’s commitment to expanding international partnerships and actively engaging in regional and global affairs.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
