DILI, 11 March 2026 (TATOLI) — The Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira, met with the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Timor-Leste, Bruce Begnell, to discuss issues of mutual interest within the framework of bilateral cooperation.
The meeting took place at the Government Palace and was also attended by Rodney LeGrand, who oversees political, economic and consular affairs at the U.S. diplomatic mission.
During the meeting, the minister and the diplomat discussed institutional cooperation and defense-related matters. They also reviewed the ongoing administrative decentralization process, including measures aimed at strengthening municipal competencies and consolidating local governance.
Regional issues were also addressed, particularly national preparations for Timor-Leste to assume the presidency of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2029, as well as initiatives related to the country’s participation in multilateral mechanisms.
The discussion further covered ongoing initiatives to strengthen the legal and institutional framework in the areas of cybersecurity and the fight against cybercrime, including mechanisms for interinstitutional coordination.
Both sides also exchanged views on the national economic context, including major strategic projects such as the development of the Greater Sunrise project and measures aimed at improving the investment climate.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
