DILI, 08 May 2026 (TATOLI) – The Presidency of the Republic, in collaboration with the IX Constitutional Government, today officially launched three strategic events for 2026: the Dili International Marathon, the Science Summit for Development and “Natal do Povo” (Christmas with the people). The launch took place at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace.
These initiatives reflect the nation’s strategic vision of strengthening international engagement, promoting inclusive development, and consolidating national unity.
The launch marks the beginning of a coordinated national effort to position Timor-Leste as a platform for global collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Dili International Marathon 2026
Established in 2010 under the patronage of President J. Ramos-Horta, the Dili International Marathon, promotes health, wellness, and tourism by bringing together local and international participants in a celebration of sport and resilience.
The 2026 Marathon, themed “Love Our Forests and Wildlife,” will take place on August 8, 2026, and is expected to attract more than 7,000 participants, including international athletes, amateur runners, and community members across various race categories.
As one of the country’s premier sporting events, the Marathon drives tourism, international visibility, and community engagement, while simultaneously promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
The program begins with the National Selection Race on May 9, 2026, in Dili, generating early public engagement. A Gala Dinner with sponsors and partners will be held on August 7, 2026, in Nobre Palace Lahane, providing an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and recognize contributions.
Complementing the Marathon, the DIM EXPO 2026 will take place from August 6 to August 8, 2026, at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. This three-day cultural and environmental festival expands the event into a multi-day national celebration, combining sport with culture, youth participation, and sustainability. The Expo will highlight Timorese identity, promote green economy initiatives, and engage regional and international partners in areas such as biodiversity conservation, innovation, and cultural exchange.
For more information on the Dili International Marathon 2026, visit the official website at www.dilimarathon.tl
Science Summit for Development 2026
The Science Summit for Development 2026 will be held from August 24–25, 2026, at the Dili Convention Center, bringing together more than 25 Nobel Prize laureates, along with world-renowned scientists, policymakers, and innovators.
The Summit will serve as a high-level platform for dialogue on science, technology, and innovation in service of sustainable development, positioning Timor-Leste as an emerging hub for global knowledge exchange.
A Gala Dinner for laureates and special guests will take place on August 23, 2026, at Nobre Palace Lahane, offering an opportunity for high-level interaction and diplomatic engagement.
A Science and Technology Expo will be held alongside the Summit, providing a platform for academics, students, businesses, innovators, and sponsors to present research, technologies and solutions relevant to Timor-Leste’s development. The Expo will promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships between international experts and local stakeholders.
Following the Summit, participants will take part in organized field visits in Timor-Leste on August 26, 2026, including programs focused on marine biodiversity and conservation on Ataúro Island, as well as mountain agriculture, coffee production, and rural livelihoods in Aileu and Maubisse Municipality. These visits aim to connect scientific dialogue to local realities and sustainable development practices.
A regional engagement segment will take place on August 27, 2026, including visits to Indonesia, further strengthening international cooperation and regional partnerships.
For more information on the Science Summit for Development 2026, visit the official website at www.sciencefordevelopment26-tl.com
Natal do Povo 2026
“Natal do Povo” (Christmas with the people) is the celebration brings together the nation’s diverse communities in the spirit of unity and social solidarity during the Christmas season.
Natal do Povo commenced with the opening of a Nativity Exhibition, reviving one of the nation’s most treasured Christmas traditions. The Nativity Scene, deeply rooted in the Christian faith of the people, is a profound expression of Timor-Leste’s spirituality, creativity, and community spirit. Following with the Presidency distributed Christmas gifts to the communities in all the municipalities, including children, widows, people with special needs, patients at Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares, detainees, and residents of orphanages and underprivileged communities.
“Natal do Povo” stands as a testament to the commitment of the Presidency and the Government to fostering national unity, celebrating Timorese culture, and sharing the blessings of Christmas directly with the citizens they serve.
These three strategic events for 2026 represent a unified effort by the Presidency and the Government to raise Timor-Leste’s international profile while delivering concrete benefits to its population. They constitute a platform for engagement with international partners, diplomatic missions, development organizations, and the private sector, simultaneously contributing to long-term national development priorities.
“Together, the Dili International Marathon, the Science Summit for Development, and Natal do Povo form a unique calendar that showcases Timor-Leste to the world in a celebration of peace, humanity, sport, and culture. The Marathon embodies our spirit of resilience, unity and protection to our beautiful biodiversity; the Science Summit brings brilliant minds to our shores to inspire our youth, foster innovation, and pave the way for growth; and Natal do Povo represents the true spirit of our nation—a time of giving, sharing, and coming together as one family, ensuring the joy of the season reaches every corner of our community and lives in the hearts of all Timorese people.”— President and Nobel Peace Laureate, Jose Ramos-Horta.
The Presidency of the Republic and the IX Constitutional Government invite international partners, sponsors, and other stakeholders to participate and support these three strategic events for 2026. These initiatives offer a unique opportunity to collaborate with a rapidly developing country, contribute to high-impact national priorities, and participate in a year of international visibility and cooperation.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
