DILI, 27 May 2026 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste and the People’s Republic of China have strengthened their strategic cooperation in the agricultural sector, aiming to modernise rural development and enhance food security.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting between the Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, and China’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Zhang Zhu, held in Beijing.
The meeting focused on expanding collaboration in key areas such as agriculture, livestock, veterinary services, food security, technological innovation and trade cooperation. The goal is to promote a more modern, productive and sustainable model of rural development.
During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities for technical cooperation, knowledge transfer and strengthening institutional capacity in response to the challenges posed by digitalisation and globalisation.
“Agriculture remains a key pillar for economic development and the well-being of rural communities in Timor-Leste,” said Mariano Assanami Sabino, highlighting the importance of the partnership with China in boosting productivity and improving living conditions in rural areas.
Priority areas for future cooperation include strengthening national food security, developing veterinary systems, modernising agricultural practices and adopting technologies to address climate change and the demands of global markets.
Zhang Zhu reaffirmed China’s readiness to continue supporting Timor-Leste based on principles of friendship and mutual benefit.
In recent years, cooperation between the two countries has intensified, particularly in the development of rural infrastructure, technical training for farmers and the implementation of programmes aimed at poverty reduction.
The meeting marks another step forward in deepening bilateral relations, with expectations of positive impacts on sustainable economic growth and rural development in Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
