DILI, 20 May 2026 (TATOLI) – The government of Timor-Leste marked another important milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the International Convention Center (ICC) in Dili. The project site, located at the former Port of Dili, forms part of the country’s preparations for its ASEAN Presidency in 2029.
The foundation stone of the project was jointly laid by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, and Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão said the ICC project was part of Timor-Leste’s broader strategy to prepare for the responsibilities of assuming ASEAN chairmanship in 2029.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão said Timor-Leste, despite being ASEAN’s newest member, must strengthen its infrastructure and institutional capacity to support deeper regional integration and engagement.
Meanwhile, Kao Kim Hourn said the construction of the ICC reflected Timor-Leste’s commitment to national development and regional integration.
He said the International Convention Centre would serve as a platform for dialogue, partnership and regional integration, while strengthening Timor-Leste’s engagement with ASEAN and the international community.
Kao Kim Hourn added that the facility would enhance Timor-Leste’s capacity to host regional and international meetings while creating new opportunities in investment, tourism and economic development.
According to the ASEAN secretary-general, the project also symbolised Timor-Leste’s readiness to take on a greater leadership role within the regional bloc.
Francisco Kalbuadi Lay described the launch of the ICC project as a historic moment that coincided with the 24th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s restoration of independence.
He said the idea for the convention centre was first proposed nearly two years ago by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and members of the government before moving into the construction phase.
“We started from the initial concept and design, and today we are finally able to launch the groundbreaking of this project,” he said.
The International Convention Centre is designed to host international conferences, high-level ASEAN meetings and regional forums with modern facilities and infrastructure.
Construction of the project will be carried out by Shaanxi Construction Engineering Group Corporation over a two-year period from 2026 to 2028.
TATOLI
