DILI, 09 May 2026 (TATOLI) – President and Nobel Peace Laureate Jose Ramos-Horta embarked on his first State Visit to Papua New Guinea from May 10 to May 13, 2026, reinforcing ties between the two nations and opening a strategic chapter in their bilateral relationship.
The visit coincides with the Inaugural Melanesian Oceans Summit, hosted by PNG at the APEC Haus under the theme “Ensuring Ocean Protection with Sustainable Ocean Economies.”
A key focus of the visit is strengthening cooperation between Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea—two nations with deep shared interests as Melanesian and Coral Triangle countries.
Upon arrival in Port Moresby on May 10, President Ramos-Horta will begin his official program on May 11 with a courtesy call on the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, at Government House.
Later that day, the President will hold a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, at Melanesian Haus. The two leaders are expected to discuss practical collaboration in regional diplomacy, ocean governance, and economic resilience.
President Ramos-Horta will then attend a State Luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister and Governor General at the Hilton Hotel. In the evening, the President will attend the Official Dinner hosted by Prime Minister Marape, marking the opening of the Inaugural Melanesian Oceans Summit, at APEC Haus.
On May 12, President Ramos-Horta will participate in the Melanesian Oceans Summit plenary sessions at APEC Haus, where Melanesian leaders will make ocean protection pledges toward the global 30×30 biodiversity targets.
The President will also hold bilateral meetings with leaders from other Pacific Island nations at APEC Haus, followed by attending a cocktail reception hosted by the Governor of the National Capital District, Hon. Powes Parkop.
The visit reaffirms Timor-Leste’s solidarity with Melanesian nations on ocean governance, sustainable fisheries, and marine conservation.
“Timor-Leste may be young in nationhood, but we are ancient in our respect for the ocean. The Melanesian Oceans Summit is a beacon of collective ambition. Timor-Leste stands with you—to protect our blue heritage, to secure our people’s livelihoods, and to ensure that the Pacific’s heart continues to beat strong for generations to come,” stated President Ramos-Horta.
President Ramos-Horta will conclude his first state visit to Port Moresby on May 13, following a farewell Guard of Honour at Jacksons International Airport.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
