DILI, 27 March 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste and India on Friday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing a bilateral consultation mechanism aimed at strengthening diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
The agreement was signed in Dili by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito Freitas, and the outgoing Ambassador of India to Timor-Leste, Madan Kumar Ghildiyal, during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The agreement marked a significant milestone in relations between the two countries, providing a structured and institutional platform to deepen dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and advance shared priorities in political, economic and socio-cultural areas.
“The Bilateral Consultation Mechanism will enable regular exchanges at the level of senior officials, providing a forum to review progress, identify new areas of cooperation, and coordinate our positions on regional and global issues of mutual interest. This reflects our shared commitment to building a forward-looking and results-oriented partnership,” Minister Freitas said during the signing ceremony.
He added that as Timor-Leste advances its regional and global engagement, including its pursuit of ASEAN membership, India remains a key partner. “We see India as an important partner in promoting stability, connectivity, and inclusive development in the Indo-Pacific region,” Freitas said.
“Today’s signing is not merely a formal act—it is a strategic step toward institutionalizing our engagement and ensuring that our cooperation is sustained, structured, and impactful,” The Fireign Minister stressed. “Let us use this mechanism to translate our shared aspirations into concrete actions and tangible outcomes for the benefit of our peoples.”
Freitas expressed appreciation for Ambassador Ghildiyal’s service in Dili, highlighting his role in strengthening bilateral cooperation. “Under your stewardship, our cooperation has expanded in key areas, including capacity building, health, education, and technical cooperation. More importantly, you have laid a strong foundation of trust, mutual respect, and understanding that will continue to guide our partnership in the years ahead,” he said.
Ambassador Kumar welcomed the agreement, noting that it would enhance coordination between institutions in both countries.
“I wish to convey my sincere gratitude to the Honorable Minister for his gracious willingness to accommodate the request for signing the MOU on such short notice, just days prior to my departure. His esteemed presence here lends considerable significance to this important occasion,” he said.
The ambassador added that the memorandum would serve as a cornerstone for stronger ties. “The Memorandum will serve as a cornerstone for fostering deeper understanding and enhancing cooperation between our countries for years to come.”
India has long been a valued partner of Timor-Leste, with relations characterized by mutual respect and shared commitments to democracy, pluralism and diversity.
Diplomatic ties between the two countries date back to January 2003, marking more than two decades of cooperation.
Recent high-level exchanges have further strengthened relations, including the 2024 visit of President José Ramos-Horta to India and the subsequent state visit to Timor-Leste by Indian President Droupadi Murmu. These engagements culminated in the opening of embassies in both capitals, underscoring a shared vision for deeper collaboration.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
