DILI, 19 August 2025 (TATOLI) — President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, formally received the Letter of Credence from Mr. Ricardo Lustosa Leal, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federative Republic of Brazil to Timor-Leste. The ceremony took place at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace, reaffirming the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Ambassador Ricardo Lustosa Leal is a distinguished career diplomat with extensive experience in Brazil’s foreign service. Over the course of his career, he has served in key diplomatic missions including Ramallah, the Vatican, Cape Verde, and London. He has contributed to academic publications and received multiple promotions within the diplomatic corps in recognition of his meritorious service, underscoring his dedication to advancing Brazil’s global partnerships.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on May 20, 2002, Timor-Leste and Brazil have deepened collaboration across sectors such as education, defense, public administration, health, and agriculture. Brazil has played a pivotal role in supporting Timor-Leste’s justice sector, vocational training, and higher education, including the creation of a Master’s program at the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL). More than 130 Timorese students and religious scholars have benefited from academic exchanges in Brazil, reflecting a shared commitment to South-South cooperation and mutual development.
President Horta stated, “Timor-Leste values its longstanding friendship with Brazil—a partnership rooted in solidarity and shared aspirations. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation in areas of common interest, fostering sustainable development and people-to-people ties.”
The President expressed confidence that under Ambassador Leal’s leadership, bilateral relations would continue to flourish, contributing to peace and prosperity in both nations.
To date, Brazil has provided substantial support to Timor-Leste across various sectors, including education, justice, and defense. This support reflects a shared commitment to South-South cooperation and inclusive development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
