DILI, 20 January 2026 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation and the Ministry of Justice, on Tuesday officially handed over the former land and property of the Vice Minister of Infrastructure’s office in Farol, Dili, to the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) for the establishment of its embassy in Timor-Leste.
Vice Minister of ASEAN Affairs Milena Rangel stated that the handover reflects reciprocity and symbolizes the strong bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation between Timor-Leste and Lao PDR.
“The Embassy of Lao PDR in Timor-Leste will stand as a symbol of our enduring partnership and common aspiration for peace, development, and regional unity. Together, we are stronger and more cohesive as one ASEAN family,” Vice Minister Rangel told journalist in Farol, Dili.
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Lao PDR Phongsamouth Anlavan, speaking on behalf of her government, expressed appreciation for Timor-Leste’s gesture and reaffirmed Lao PDR’s commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
“With this, we will work closely together to celebrate our 24th anniversary of diplomatic relations,” she said.
She emphasized that the property will soon be utilized as the Lao Embassy in Dili, serving as a bridge between the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Timor-Leste to enhance diplomatic cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
At the same event, Timor-Leste’s Minister of Justice Sérgio Hornai, speaking on behalf of the government, thanked Lao PDR and highlighted that the establishment of the embassy will reinforce respect for the rule of law, human dignity, and justice.
“We will further consolidate our democratic state governed by the rule of law, and we will work to strengthen our country both regionally and bilaterally, building a more democratic nation founded on mutual respect,” he said.
The handover marks a significant step in deepening bilateral ties and advancing ASEAN unity, as Timor-Leste and Lao PDR continue to expand cooperation across political, diplomatic, and social spheres.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
