DILI, 24 June 2026 (TATOLI) – Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, on Tuesday, visited the Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (National Printing Office and Mint) (INCM, acronym in Portuguese) in Lisbon to learn about the processes for technological modernisation and the secure issuance of official documents, as part of the Government’s efforts to advance the digitisation of public administration in Timor-Leste.
During the visit, the Prime Minister observed the operation of the systems used to issue passports, identity cards, and other official documents, which are built on integrated digital platforms and high security standards designed to prevent document forgery and ensure data protection.
The visit provided an opportunity to learn about Portugal’s experience in modernising identification and documentation systems, as well as about cooperation projects carried out by the INCM with other countries, with a view to evaluating solutions that could serve as a reference for future initiatives in Timor-Leste.
“The goal is to observe and learn to prepare our staff. Later, as part of a cooperation agreement, we will be able to implement this system in an organised manner, because this process is not simple,” said the Prime Minister.
Justice Minister Sérgio da Costa Hornai noted that, in addition to ongoing cooperation in training and judicial reform, the Government is prioritising the digitisation and modernisation of administrative systems and official documentation. In this context, the visit also provided an opportunity to explore avenues for cooperation with the National Printing Office-Mint in developing digital solutions and integrated database management.
The minister explained that the Government intends to develop a digital system capable of integrating various official documents, including identity cards, criminal record certificates, registration data, and other administrative documents issued by the Ministry of Justice.
“The main goal is to modernise public services and enhance the security, efficiency, and accessibility of the official documents used by citizens daily,” said the Minister of Justice.
The Government intends to strengthen cooperation with Portugal to develop modern systems for issuing documents, including electronic passports and other identification documents, thereby contributing to the modernisation of public administration, and enhancing document security.
During the visit, the Prime Minister was accompanied by Portugal’s Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of INCM, Nuno Sampaio. The Minister of Justice, Sérgio da Costa Hornai; the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to Portugal, Manuel de Araújo Serrano; and the Director-General of Justice Policy, Nelinho Vital, also attended.
TATOLI
