DILI, 06 August 2025 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta has called for deeper economic cooperation between Timor-Leste and Australia during his opening remarks at the 2nd Timor-Leste–Australia Economic and Business Conference (TLAUCON2025), held in Dili from 6 to 8 August 2025.
Speaking to government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and development partners, President Ramos-Horta highlighted the importance of strengthening the Timor-Leste–Australia partnership through investment and trade.
“We share commitment to upscale Timor-Leste/Australia partnership through meaningful economic cooperation,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to both governments and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Timor-Leste for organizing the conference for the second time, noting its significance in boosting bilateral ties: “Profuse appreciation is due to the Governments of Timor-Leste and Australia, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Timor-Leste, the TL/Australia Economic and Business Conference for hosting this gathering for the second time. We look forward to making it an annual milestone in our bilateral relations.”
Describing the event as more than a business gathering, the President emphasized the growing friendship between the two nations.
“Timor-Leste–Australia Economic & Business Conference 2025 is more than just a conference; it’s a bridge between our two nations. By coming together, we are strengthening our friendship, deepening our cooperation, and building a shared future of economic growth and development.”
He said Timor-Leste is entering a new stage of development, with a strong focus on economic diversification and regional integration. This includes the country’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2024 and its upcoming ASEAN membership in October 2025.
“Timor-Leste is entering a new phase in its development. With a renewed commitment to economic diversification and regional integration, we are preparing our nation to become a competitive player in Southeast Asia,” he said. “Our progress toward ASEAN membership in October 2025 and our WTO accession in 2024 reflects this vision, and opens up new horizons for trade, investment, and innovation.”
Ramos-Horta also mentioned the government’s efforts to improve the business environment through reforms that aim to make the country more transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly.
“We are actively investing in key sectors with high potential: Agriculture, Tourism, Manufacturing, and Natural Resources,” he added. “At the same time, we are implementing reforms to make ‘doing business’ in Timor-Leste more transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly.”
The President acknowledged Australia’s continued support since Timor-Leste’s independence, underlining the importance of long-term cooperation: “Today, we continue that partnership through trade, investment, innovation, and our shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.”
“To the Australian business leaders and investors present today: Timor-Leste is open for business. We offer a young, motivated workforce, a growing regional outlook, and the opportunity to be part of our nation’s transformation story,” he said.
He invited Australian investors to explore the many opportunities in Timor-Leste and to partner with local businesses in shaping a resilient and prosperous future.
“Let this conference be a space for building relationships, forging agreements, and sharing ideas that will lead to meaningful and lasting change,” he said.
The three-day TLAUCON2025 conference brings together public and private sector leaders to discuss ways to boost trade, investment, and sustainable development across key sectors in Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
