DILI, 15 April 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste will host a major regional health meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2026, the government said, as preparations get underway for the gathering of Southeast Asia’s top health officials.
On Wednesday, Health Minister Elia A. A. dos Reis Amaral presented to the Council of Ministers on preparations for the 79th session of the World Health Organization Regional Committee for Southeast Asia (WHO-SEARO), which Dili is set to host this year.
The 79th session of the WHO-SEARO is scheduled to take place in Dili from September 7 to 9, 2026.
Timor-Leste has been a member state of the WHO since 2002 and a member of WHO-SEARO since 2003. The country previously hosted the 68th Session from September 7 to 11, 2015.
The meeting will bring together health ministers and senior officials from member states, providing a key platform for dialogue and coordination on health priorities and policies.
The session is also expected to strengthen regional cooperation and support efforts to improve health systems and responses to shared challenges.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
