DILI, 23 december 2025 (TATOLI) – The Ambassador of Japan to Timor-Leste, Kimura Tetsuya, paid a farewell visit to Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão on Tuesday at the Government Palace in Dili, ahead of the conclusion of his diplomatic mission.
The Japanese diplomat said he will return to Japan in January and used the meeting to express his gratitude for the support, friendship, and cooperation shown by the Timorese Government during his three-year tenure.
Kimura highlighted the role of the Prime Minister in strengthening relations between Tokyo and Dili.
He recalled Xanana Gusmão’s official visit to Japan in 2023, during which both countries agreed to elevate their bilateral ties to a comprehensive partnership.
“The development of bilateral relations has been very positive,” Kimura said.
He expressed hope for further strengthening cooperation through high-level exchanges and reaffirmed that Japan “will continue to be a reliable and close partner of Timor-Leste.”
The ambassador also reviewed key ongoing cooperation projects between the two countries.
These include the construction of the new passenger terminal at Nicolau Lobato International Airport and improvement works at the National Hospital Guido Valadares.
He also highlighted Japanese private investment projects in shipyard construction and solar energy.
Kimura said that during his mandate he visited more than 90 sucos across several municipalities.
He stressed the importance of direct engagement with local communities, in partnership with various non-governmental organizations, in education, health, and infrastructure projects.
According to the ambassador, more than 155 projects were completed during this period.
“A large part of the Timorese population lives in rural areas, so it is essential that progress and development reach those communities,” he concluded.
Journalist: Alexandrina da Costa
Editor: Cancio Ximenes
Translator: Camilio de Sousa
