DILI, 06 february 2026 (TATOLI) — Portuguese Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Duarte Alves, thanked the Timorese government for its US$5 million contribution to support Portugal’s relief efforts following the devastating impact of Storm Kristin.
On wednesday, the government of Timor-Leste approved the US$5m donation to assist communities heavily affected by the storm in Portugal.
Storm Kristin has claimed several lives, with total damage estimated at more than €4bn — over 1% of Portugal’s gross domestic product — making it the costliest and most destructive storm on record in the country.
The storm struck in the early hours of wednesday, 28 January, bringing wind gusts of more than 200kph (124mph) and torrential rain that uprooted trees and tore roofs from buildings.
Speaking after a meeting with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão at the Government Palace in Dili on Thursday, Alves expressed Portugal’s appreciation.
“The first message I conveyed to the Prime Minister was one of gratitude, on behalf of the Portuguese government, for the donation of five million dollars. It is a gesture that deeply moves us and demonstrates the profound and fraternal bond between our countries,” he said.
The meeting also ended with an agreement to hold a technical session between representatives of both countries to discuss concrete cooperation proposals in the Blue Economy under the Strategic Cooperation Program.
“It was agreed to deepen technical dialogue to analyse concrete proposals that Timor-Leste already has on the table, which will be forwarded to the Directorate-General for Maritime Policy and Maritime Resources in Lisbon,” Alves added.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
