DILI, 29 january 2026 (TATOLI) – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has concluded his first official visit to Timor-Leste as Prime Minister, highlighting a strengthened bilateral partnership and announcing major new support across economic and human development sectors.
During his visit to Dili, Albanese met with President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. He also addressed the Parliament of Timor-Leste, describing the opportunity as a great honour for Australia.
A central outcome of the visit was the signing of a joint declaration between Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Gusmão establishing Parseria Foun ba Era Foun, which is Tetum for “A New Partnership for a New Era.”
The declaration is the first of its kind between the two nations and cements their growing economic, security and development partnerships. It demonstrates a shared commitment to an open, stable and prosperous region; cooperation, consultation and mutual respect for national sovereignty; support for Timor-Leste’s nation building priorities; and stronger community links.
As part of the visit, Prime Minister Albanese announced an Economic Cooperation Package for Timor-Leste, including a further US$8.2 million to support the country’s participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organization.
The package also includes an US$80 million Private Sector Development Program to support Timor-Leste’s economic diversification and private sector growth through improved access to credit, business services and marketing support.
In addition, the Prime Minister announced a new $220 million Human Development Initiative aimed at supporting the delivery of inclusive and high-quality health, education and disability services across Timor-Leste.
On energy cooperation, the Australian Government committed to allocate ten per cent of Australia and Timor-Leste’s combined future upstream revenue from the Greater Sunrise project, once finalised, to the Timor-Leste Infrastructure Fund.
In recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral ties, President Ramos-Horta presented Prime Minister Albanese with the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, honouring his contribution to enhancing relations between the two countries and his commitment to the prosperity of the Timorese people.
Speaking during the visit, Prime Minister Albanese said: “This marks a new era of cooperation between our nations. It reflects our longstanding friendship and sets out our shared vision for the future.”
“It was an honour to visit Timor-Leste at this important moment in its history following its accession to ASEAN. Australia will continue to work with Timor-Leste to ensure this delivers peace, stability, and prosperity for the Timorese people and our shared region,” he concluded.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
