DILI, 24 February 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta extended his warmest congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and the people of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of their 41st National Day.
In a congratulatory letter addressed to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on February 23rd, 2025, President Ramos-Horta highlighted Brunei’s achievements under Sultan Bolkiah’s leadership and reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
“The path of progress and stability that Brunei Darussalam has followed under Your Majesty’s wise and visionary leadership continues to serve as an inspiration for our region,” stated President Ramos-Horta. “The resilience and commitment of your country to sustainable development, regional cooperation, and international peace are widely recognized and admired.”
The President emphasized the value Timor-Leste places on its friendship with Brunei Darussalam and expressed his dedication to exploring new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
Timor-Leste and Brunei Darussalam share a long-standing close relationship as the two youngest members of ASEAN. Both nations, with their strong dependence on the gas and oil industry, share a commitment to diversifying their economies. Brunei Darussalam was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste on the day of its international recognition in May 2002. The bilateral relations and partnership between the two countries have grown steadily over the past 21 years. His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has consistently supported Timor-Leste’s institutional building and its aspiration to join ASEAN.
President Ramos-Horta’s message also conveyed his wishes for good health and happiness to His Majesty and the Royal Family, as well as continued peace and prosperity for the people of Brunei Darussalam.
TATOLI
