DILI, 11 March 2025 (TATOLI) – António da Conceição, the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of Timor-Leste to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, on Monday presented his credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.
Ambassador Kalohan highlighted Timor-Leste’s commitment to strengthening the collaboration in supporting the role of the UN, particularly advocating for human rights and development issues.
On the same day, Kalohan also presented his credentials to the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
During the courtesy meeting at the WTO, DG Ngozi expressed her gratitude to Timor-Leste’s recent accession to the WTO and reiterated the organization’s commitment to provide technical assistance and capacity building aimed to maximize the benefits of Timor-Leste’s membership.
Last month, President Jose Ramos Horta swore in António da Conceição ‘Kalohan’ as the new Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva.
“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.”
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.
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.
TATOLI
