DILI, 28 October 2025 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic and Nobel Peace Laureate, José Ramos-Horta, on Monday held a bilateral meeting with the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The productive discussion focused on deepening the robust partnership between the European Union and Timor-Leste, with President Ramos-Horta highlighting key national development projects requiring continued cooperation.
The President made reference to the construction of five referral hospitals and several bridges across the country, crucial projects for improving infrastructure and public services in Timor-Leste.
President Ramos-Horta also presented the “One Seed” national project, an innovative initiative focused on carbon capture and direct investment in local communities. The President expressed gratitude for the EU’s vital support in expanding this project to eight municipalities, underscoring its importance for sustainable development and climate action.
Affirming Timor-Leste’s progress, President Ramos-Horta described the nation as remarkably stable with robust economic development.
The Head of State pointed to growing investor confidence following the country’s accession to ASEAN, citing as an example the new shipyard currently under construction by Japanese investors.
On the international stage, President Ramos-Horta reinforced the global need for a strong and engaged European Union to act as a bridge-builder between nations in conflict. The President also urged the EU to consider filling the void left by the reduction of USAID assistance in critical areas, particularly in Myanmar and South Sudan.
Concluding his remarks, the President expressed his concern regarding the recent reduction of the European Union’s representative presence in Timor-Leste, emphasizing the importance of a strong diplomatic footprint.
In his response, President of the European Council, António Costa, praised Timor-Leste as a global reference for its unwavering respect for International Law and its profound commitment to peace, reconciliation, and international integration.
He stated that Timor-Leste has become a “role model for the region and the world.”
President António Costa concluded by assuring President Ramos-Horta that Timor-Leste can continue to count on the steadfast support of the European Union.
TATOLI
