DILI, 26 january 2026 (TATOLI) – President José Ramos-Horta has commended international NGO Blue Ventures for a decade of marine conservation work in Timor-Leste.
The Head of State received a delegation led by Country Director Bernadete Fonseca at the Presidential Palace on monday to mark the organisation’s 10th anniversary in the country.
During the meeting, Fonseca highlighted Blue Ventures’ active presence in areas including Ataúro, Manatuto, and the south coast, where it works closely with coastal communities to protect vital marine ecosystems.
She detailed Blue Ventures’ partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry (MAPPF) to support the government’s blue economy goals and the global “30×30” initiative for marine protection.
A key topic of discussion was the Government’s plan to establish Ataúro as a National Park.
She reaffirmed Blue Ventures’ commitment to empowering local residents with the technical skills and environmental knowledge necessary to manage their own marine resources, including mangroves and coral reefs, effectively and sustainably.
President Ramos-Horta welcomed the delegation’s report and emphasized that conservation efforts must always be evidence-based and result-oriented.
The President advised that international cooperation should prioritize tangible impacts on the ground, ensuring that local communities see real improvements in their livelihoods and environment, while also stressing that the success of such programs is measured by the lasting benefits they bring to the Timorese people and the preservation of the nation’s natural heritage.
On this occasion, the delegation also extended a formal invitation to President Ramos-Horta to attend the official celebration of Blue Ventures’ 10th anniversary in Timor-Leste.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Maritns
