DILI, 28 january 2026 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic and Nobel Peace Laureate, Jose Ramos-Horta, bestowed the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste on the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili.
The Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste is the nation’s highest honour, bestowed on the Prime Minister of Australia under the Decree of the President of the Republic No. 03 /2026.
The honour recognizes that throughout his political career as a young politician and later as leader of the opposition in the Federal Parliament, and as Prime Minister.
Albanese has demonstrated a strong and unwavering commitment to deepening the ties of friendship and cooperation between Australia and Timor-Leste — neighbours bound by a geography and history, united in a forward-looking partnership.
President Ramos-Horta in his remarks said: “Today’s honour recognizes not only his role as Prime Minister, but also the values he represents — the belief that good neighbours invest in each other’s success, and that strong partnerships are built on trust, fairness, and long-term vision. Prime Minister Albanese’s leadership has reflected a clear understanding of this relationship.
“His engagement with Timor-Leste, and his presence at key moments in our regional journey, signal a genuine respect for our country and our people. It is therefore with deep respect and sincere gratitude that we bestow upon you the Order of Timor-Leste, Grand Collar — in recognition of past solidarity, present partnership, and our shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous future,” the President said.
In accepting the honour from Timor-Leste, the Australian Prime Minister in his remarks said: “I am deeply humbled to receive this honour, both as an individual and as Prime Minister of Australia.”
“I thank the people of Timor-Leste. We share not only a history but also a future. Australia chooses to be your friend and neighbour, working alongside you to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare, and to secure a peaceful, stable, and resilient region,” said Albanese.
The Prime Minister pledged that Australia would continue to provide whatever support it could and expressed confidence that the Timorese people and businesses would succeed.
He described the spirit of the country’s young people as deeply uplifting and unforgettable, saying it would be key to the nation’s future success.
He also expressed gratitude for the extraordinary honour bestowed upon him, adding that it would be warmly received in Australia as a powerful symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Australia has been a steadfast and reliable partner in Timor-Leste’s national development – supporting the strengthening of institutions, the development on infrastructure, and the building of human capacity.
Timor-Leste and Australia share a close and dynamic partnership, underpinned by enduring people-to-people links, a shared history, and a commitment to a stable and prosperous region. The bilateral relationship is broad and multifaceted, encompassing robust political engagement, substantial development cooperation, and growing economic ties in trade and investment.
Significant cooperation also extends across defence and security—including under a reciprocal Defence Cooperation Agreement—and socio-cultural spheres, notably through labour mobility, education scholarships, and support for Timor-Leste’s successful accession to ASEAN and the WTO. This comprehensive collaboration reflects the fundamental principle that the strength and prosperity of each nation is in the interest of the other.
Journalist: Cacmilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
