DILI, 23 january 2026 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Laos, João Câmara, has said the newly established visa exemption between the two countries marks a significant step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting and facilitating travel between the two nations and enhancing people-to-people ties.
The visa waiver agreement was originally signed on october 8, 2024, in Vientiane and took effect on august 15, 2025.
Speaking after a meeting with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão at the Government Palace in Dili, Ambassador João Câmara said the agreement would make travel easier for citizens of both countries.
“In the past, holders of ordinary passports faced difficulties, but now they can travel more easily, without major constraints,” he said.
The diplomat said that Timor-Leste had already signed similar agreements with other ASEAN member states even before becoming a full member of the regional bloc, reflecting its long-standing commitment to regional engagement.
He explained that the visa exemption regime, previously limited to holders of diplomatic and service passports, now also applies to ordinary passport holders, while stressing the need to maintain effective migration control mechanisms.
The Ambassador said diplomatic efforts would continue to serve as a bridge for deepening relations between Timor-Leste and Laos, particularly in the post-ASEAN accession context.
“After joining ASEAN, the embassy will continue to prioritise bilateral cooperation while aligning it with the multilateral framework, in order to strengthen Timor-Leste’s contribution within the organisation,” he said.
Regarding his meeting with the Prime Minister, Câmara said it took place as part of his return to Laos after accompanying a delegation led by Lao Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Phongsamouth Anlavan during a recent visit to Timor-Leste.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
