DILI, 19 January 2026 (TATOLI) – The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, met in Lisbon on January 17, 2026, with the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of Portugal, Paulo Rangel, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation and deepening political dialogue on matters of common interest within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP, acronym in Portuguese).
The meeting focused particularly on the political, democratic, and constitutional situation in Guinea-Bissau. Both parties exchanged views on political and diplomatic initiatives that could contribute to a peaceful solution in line with the constitutional order, including the potential mobilization of regional and multilateral efforts within the CPLP.
The ministers reiterated the CPLP’s position in defending constitutional order, rejecting any attempt to legitimize the coup d’état, and demanding the release of those detained following the political crisis as a condition for restoring democratic normality.
Discussions also addressed activities related to Timor-Leste’s pro tempore presidency of the CPLP, as well as preparations for the organization’s 30th anniversary celebrations, including initiatives aimed at strengthening dialogue and cooperation among member states.
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