DILI, 18 August 2025 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic José Ramos-Horta presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Maria Terezinha da Silva Viegas as Timor-Leste’s new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan. The ceremony, held at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Bairro-Pité, marks a significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between Timor-Leste and Japan.
Ambassador Viegas, a distinguished Timorese leader, has dedicated her career to public service and parliamentary leadership. She has served in Timor-Leste’s National Parliament across multiple legislatures, including as Vice-President of the National Parliament (2023–2028), Secretary of State for Parliamentary Affairs (2012–2017), and as a member of key parliamentary committees.
She has actively participated in international forums such as the AP-CPLP, leading delegations to meetings in Portugal, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. A committed advocate for diplomacy and development, she also engages in human rights initiatives and parliamentary cooperation, reinforcing Timor-Leste’s global ties.
President Ramos-Horta stated, “Ambassador Viegas’s leadership will further solidify the enduring friendship between Timor-Leste and Japan. Our nations share a bond forged through Japan’s steadfast support for our development –from critical infrastructure to human capital. As we elevate our Comprehensive Partnership, we look forward to advancing shared priorities, including sustainable growth, private-sector investment, and regional stability.”
Following the ceremony, Ambassador Viegas affirmed her commitment to continuing the bilateral cooperation previously led by Ambassador Ilidio Ximenes. “I will carry out my diplomatic mission in Japan for three years. I intend to continue the programs initiated by Ambassador Ximenes to strengthen the bilateral cooperation that has been developed between Timor-Leste and Japan,” Viegas said.
Since establishing diplomatic relations in 2002, Timor-Leste and Japan have built a strong partnership based on mutual respect and shared values as maritime nations with histories of resilience.
Japan has been a key supporter of Timor-Leste’s development, providing assistance in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and disaster risk reduction through JICA. Major projects include upgrades to Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, National Road No. 1, and the Comoro Bridge, alongside initiatives in agriculture, fisheries, renewable energy, and defence cooperation.
Recent collaborations include the expansion of Guido Valadares National Hospital, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding’s investment in Timor-Leste’s maritime sector, INPEX’s engagement in energy development, and Japan’s support for Timor-Leste’s ASEAN accession.
President Ramos-Horta expressed confidence that Ambassador Viegas’s appointment will elevate and fortify the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Timor-Leste and Japan.
Journalist: Camílio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
