DILI, 28 january 2026 (TATOLI) – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has arrived in Dili for a two-day visit focused on strengthening ties between Australia and Timor-Leste.
Albanese landed at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport at 10am, where he was welcomed by President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão. The three leaders then left together to the Presidential Palace in Ramos-Horta’s Mini Moke.
Security and gas cooperation are expected to be among the key issues discussed during the visit.
The official welcome ceremony will be held at the Presidential Palace with state honours, including the playing of the national anthems and an inspection of the Guard of Honour.
President Ramos-Horta and Albanese will hold a private meeting, followed by expanded talks between their delegations.
The Australian prime minister will also travel to the Government Palace for a meeting with Prime Minister Gusmão and members of the government.
The meeting will conclude with the signing of an agreement titled “New Partnership for the New Era”, which aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation across key strategic sectors.
Albanese is also scheduled to address the National Parliament at the invitation of the House Speaker Fernanda Lay.
Albanese is expected to underline the importance of the partnership between the two countries and the shared commitment to peace, sustainable development, and regional stability.
Later in the afternoon, Albanese will be awarded the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste in recognition of his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Prime Minister will conclude his visit on thursday and depart at 7:30 for Darwin.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
