Timor-Leste, Philippines reaffirm commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation
DÍLI, 31 July 2026 (TATOLI) – The Director-General (DG) for Bilateral Affairs for Asia and Oceania of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, Armindo Simões, received Mary Anne A. Padua, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Timor-Leste, for a courtesy meeting aimed at further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting focused on reviewing the current state of bilateral relations and exploring opportunities to deepen cooperation in support of Timor-Leste’s national development priorities. Discussions also highlighted practical initiatives to enhance connectivity and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
During the meeting, Ambassador Padua expressed the Philippines’ interest in finalizing the Air Services Agreement and a visa waiver arrangement for holders of ordinary passports, initiatives that would facilitate tourism, business, investment, and closer exchanges between the peoples of both countries.
Both Ambassador Padua and DG Armindo also discussed the implementation the Timor-Leste–Philippines Bilateral Consultations Mechanism as a regular platform for dialogue and cooperation across a broad range of mutually beneficial sectors, reflecting the shared commitment of both governments to elevating bilateral relations.
The meeting was held in a warm, cordial, and constructive atmosphere, underscoring the excellent relations between Timor-Leste and the Philippines.
TATOLI
