DILI, 11 November 2025 (TATOLI) — President and Nobel Peace Laureate José Ramos-Horta delivered a keynote address at the Closing Session of the 9th World Peace Forum held in Jakarta.
The forum, which ran from November 9 to 11, 2025, was organized by the Center for Dialogue and Cooperation Among Civilizations (CDCC) under the theme “Considering Wasatiyyat Islam and Tionghua for Global Collaboration.”
The event served as a platform for dialogue among civilizations, promoting regional cooperation and global peacebuilding through the shared values of Islamic moderation (Wasatiyyat) and Tionghua philosophy.
Over three days, participants explored how these worldviews can contribute to global harmony. Discussions focused on moderation, balance, and collaboration across cultural and religious boundaries.
A highlight of the forum was the Gala Dinner, where organizers presented the inaugural Benevolence Award to honor individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to peace.
The Closing Ceremony featured the “Nobel Laureates’ Peace Message” session, moderated by Ambassador Hassan Wirajuda, former Indonesian Foreign Minister. The session included insights from President José Ramos-Horta, Nobel Peace Laureate (1996), and Nihon Hidankyo, Nobel Peace Laureate (2024).
In his message, President Ramos-Horta reflected on Timor-Leste’s transformation from conflict to reconciliation and sustainable development. He presented the nation’s experience as a living example of the forum’s principles in practice.
He recalled the country’s rebirth in 2002, its reconciliation with Indonesia, and its progress in democracy, economic growth, and environmental protection. The President linked these achievements to the shared values of moderation, balance, harmony, and mutual respect found in both Wasatiyyat and Tionghua thought.
“Timor-Leste’s example demonstrates that peace is not merely a goal but a continuous process of dialogue, moderation, forgiveness, and partnership,” President Ramos-Horta said.
“These principles can and should inspire global cooperation, especially when different cultures and civilizations meet in pursuit of a common future. Our story is a message of hope for other Asia-Pacific nations: toward peace, collaboration, and shared responsibility, producing lasting results for all.”
President Ramos-Horta emphasized that Timor-Leste’s journey from a post-conflict nation to a stable democracy shows the power of inclusive leadership and strategic vision. He said that balance, justice, and harmony are not only ethical ideals but practical tools for achieving peace and development.
His participation in the forum also underscored Timor-Leste’s growing role as a new member of ASEAN and as a leading advocate for moral diplomacy in the international arena.
The 9th World Peace Forum concluded with closing remarks by Sugiano, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia.
World leaders and dignitaries in attendance included Tun Mahathir Mohamad, the 4th and 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia; Yoshihiko Noda, the 62nd Prime Minister of Japan; and Madame Atifete Jahjaga, the 4th President of Kosovo.
Other notable participants included Jusuf Kalla, the 10th and 12th Vice President of Indonesia; Samir Bakr, Assistant Secretary-General for Palestine and Al-Quds Affairs of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation; and Mohammed al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
