DILI, 06 March 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Roberto Sarmento de Oliveira Soares, held an official courtesy meeting with former Indonesian president Megawati Soekarnoputri in Jakarta on Friday, reaffirming the strong relations between the two neighboring countries.
The meeting took place at Megawati’s official residence in Teuku Umar, Menteng, and was attended by Timor-Leste’s Defence Attaché, Colonel Reinalde Guterres Corte Real e Silva, and Security Attaché, Comissario Afonso de Jesus.
During the meeting, Ambassador Soares conveyed appreciation for Megawati’s role in strengthening bilateral ties during her presidency.
He expressed “deep appreciation to Madame Megawati Soekarnoputri for her pivotal role in normalizing diplomatic relations between Timor-Leste and Indonesia when she was in office.”
The ambassador also recalled Megawati’s presence in Dili during the historic restoration of Timor-Leste’s independence.
He highlighted “her historical presence in Dili on May 20, 2002, to witness the restoration of Timor-Leste’s independence, and acknowledged her exceptional leadership during a crucial transition period—an era that fundamentally established the foundation of mutual respect and progressive diplomacy, which now characterizes the relationship between the two nations.”
During the talks, Ambassador Soares also delivered a special message from Timor-Leste’s President, José Ramos‑Horta, inviting Megawati to visit Timor-Leste at a mutually convenient date.
Megawati welcomed the invitation and expressed appreciation to the Timorese leader.
She “graciously accepted the invitation, expressing her gratitude to His Excellency President Ramos-Horta and her eagerness to visit Timor-Leste this year in 2026 to further contribute to the strengthening of ties between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.”
Megawati also highlighted her longstanding relationship with President Ramos-Horta and Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão.
In response, Ambassador Soares reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating the planned visit and thanked Megawati’s office for its continued cooperation.
The meeting concluded in a warm and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the shared commitment of both sides to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
