DIL, 29 September 2025 (TATOLI) — The newly appointed European Union (EU) Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Thorsten Bragfrede, met with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão today to strengthen bilateral cooperation and outline strategic development priorities.
Bragfrede, who took office three weeks ago, emphasized the depth of EU-Timorese ties. “I am very pleased that the Prime Minister found time to meet with me. We had very productive discussions about the long-standing partnership that the European Union maintains with Timor-Leste,” he said after the meeting at the Government Palace in Dili.
The ambassador highlighted the EU’s central role in supporting Timor-Leste’s development through financial and technical assistance programs. Key areas of cooperation include the agroforestry sector, public finance management, and combating malnutrition, in close coordination with the United Nations.
Beyond development, Bragfrede underscored the shared values that underpin EU-Timor-Leste relations, particularly human rights, democracy, and a rules-based international order. “We share similar positions on international challenges, such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, and we value Timor-Leste’s active voice in defending these principles,” he stressed.
The diplomat also expressed EU support for Timor-Leste’s future accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He noted the potential role the country could play in promoting human rights and strengthening multilateral cooperation in the region.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
