DILI, 04 June 2025 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste expressed its sincere gratitude to all United Nations Member States for their trust and support in electing Timor-Leste as one of the Vice Presidents of the UN General Assembly.
For the first time, Timor-Leste has been elected as a Vice President of the UN General Assembly, joining a diverse group of countries including Andorra, Argentina, Bangladesh, Cabo Verde, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Lebanon, Lesotho, Maldives, Montenegro, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Venezuela.
Assuming such a high-level position within the UN marked a significant and historic achievement in the country’s diplomatic journey and multilateral engagement since gaining independence.
“This is the first time Timor-Leste has assumed such a high-level position within the UN General Assembly, symbolizing the international community’s recognition of the country’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and the principles of the United Nations Charter,” the Government of Timor-Leste said in a statement.
The election reflects years of steadfast engagement and growing participation by Timor-Leste in key international processes.
“This is a proud moment for our nation,” said the Government. “It demonstrates how far Timor-Leste has come in asserting its voice on the world stage and contributes to our vision of being an active and responsible member of the international community.”
Timor-Leste congratulated the Permanent Mission of Timor-Leste to the United Nations, under the leadership of Ambassador Dionísio Babo Soares, for this diplomatic success.
As Vice President of the 80th UNGA session, Timor-Leste will support the newly elected President, Annalena Baerbock, in presiding over sessions, helping facilitate consensus, and ensuring the effective conduct of the Assembly’s work.
“This role offers Timor-Leste a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping global dialogue on peace, development, and cooperation,” read the statement.
The Government looks forward to fulfilling this responsibility with dedication and integrity, and reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and international law.
On Monday, 02 June 2025, Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister, was elected as the President of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.
Baerbock, who recently lost her ministerial post in Germany’s national election, secured 167 votes—almost double the 88 needed to win the position.
At 44, she became one of the youngest leaders ever to assume the role, the first woman from the Western European group to hold the position, and the fifth woman to serve in that post in 80 years.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
