DILI, 19 January 2026 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic José Ramos-Horta will undertake a private/work visit to Davos, Switzerland, from January 20 to 23, 2026, to participate in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting.
This year’s forum, held under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” brings together global leaders from government, business, and civil society to address pressing geopolitical, economic, and environmental challenges. President Ramos-Horta’s participation underscores Timor-Leste’s commitment to constructive multilateral engagement and its proactive role in forging collaborative solutions.
During the visit, the President’s engagements will focus on critical themes of peace, inclusive growth, and environmental regeneration.
On January 21, President Ramos-Horta will join high-level strategic dialogues, including an Informal Gathering of World Economic Leaders (IGWEL) on “Restoring a Spirit of Dialogue in a Divided World” and a Stakeholder Dialogue titled “Putting Entrepreneurs Where Markets Aren’t.” He will also attend a session hosted by Global Citizen and Forbes.
On January 22, President Ramos-Horta will deliver keynote addresses at two major side events:
- “Global Plastic Neutral: Turning Pollution into Jobs and Infrastructure” – exploring how the plastic pollution crisis can be transformed into opportunities for green jobs and sustainable infrastructure.
- “100 million Regenerative Jobs: Rebuilding Local Economies from the Ground Up Through Food Systems, Tourism, and Care” – highlighting regenerative models as pathways to ecological restoration and resilient community economies.
The President’s itinerary also includes bilateral meetings with key international figures and participation in the Global Citizen Dinner.
President Ramos-Horta emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating, “In a world often fractured by conflict and distrust, the ‘Spirit of Dialogue’ is not merely a theme but a necessity. Timor-Leste’s own journey teaches us that enduring peace and prosperity are built through persistent, respectful conversation and a shared commitment to the common good. In Davos, I will carry the voice of our people, advocating for global cooperation that invests in peace, empowers entrepreneurs, and protects our planet for future generations.”
His participation at the World Economic Forum reaffirms Timor-Leste’s active role in international dialogue and its dedication to partnering in the search for solutions to global challenges.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes da A. Belo
