DILI, 18 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The Secretary of State for Forestry hosted a national conference today at the Dili Convention Center under the theme “Diversifying the Economy through the Forestry Sector.”
Speaking at the event, Secretary of State for Forests, Fernandinho Vieira said the initiative aimed to bring together development partners, local authorities, NGO representatives, and academics to share insights on accessing international markets, identify policies for sustainable resource management and conservation, and foster cross-sectoral partnerships, particularly in the forestry industry.
“The goal of this conference is to raise awareness about the potential of Timor-Leste’s forestry sector to drive economic diversification,” said Vieira. “We are exploring opportunities in both timber and non-timber forest resources and their capacity to generate domestic revenue.”
He emphasized that the forestry sector also plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, and climate change mitigation.
The event was attended by key figures, including Vice Prime Minister, Minister Coordinator for Social Affairs and Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, as well as the European Union Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Marc Fiedrich.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor : Filomeno Martins
