DILI, 27 November 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, presided today over the presentation ceremony of the Honorary Consulate of Hungary, using the occasion to reiterate Timor-Leste’s commitment to the strategic expansion of its diplomatic presence worldwide.
In his speech, the Head of State highlighted recent high-level interactions, including talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, as well as growing interest from countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait in strengthening cooperation with Timor-Leste.
He underscored the critical importance of physical diplomatic presence, noting that nations with embassies in Dili naturally benefit from greater visibility and preference in lobbying processes for votes in international bodies and UN elections. Consequently, RamosHorta called on international partners to strengthen their institutional commitment to the country.
Addressing the installation of foreign missions, the President urged the Government to accelerate the resolution of constraints related to land allocation. In particular, he suggested repurposing the space formerly occupied by the “Sporting Club,” currently derelict, for diplomatic use. Amidst lighthearted memories of his youth—when he played football at the site to secure free entry to the cinema, where the American western Arizona Jim was shown for months—the President stressed that nostalgia must not halt progress. He argued that the property, now a “ghost” space, should be transformed into a strategic asset for strengthening international relations.
President Ramos-Horta welcomed the new representatives of Hungary and Italy, evoking his long connection with European leadership and recalling his role as the sole nominator of the European Union for the Nobel Peace Prize.
In closing, he reiterated the Presidency’s commitment to openness, inviting diplomats and citizens to utilize the gardens and spaces of the Presidential Palace for meetings and study.
He emphasized that the space remains a transparent and fiscally responsible hub for dialogue and activity, expressing hope that the new honorary consuls will further bridge the distance between Timor-Leste and Europe.
TATOLI
