DILI, 26 May 2026 (TATOLI) — Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão on Tuesday called on young people in Timor-Leste to play a central role in strengthening the country’s economic resilience as it navigates global uncertainty.
Gusmão made the call in his remarks at the Asia-Pacific Business Forum held at Timor Plaza in Dili, where the National Association of Young Entrepreneurs of Timor (ANJET) and the Young Entrepreneurs Group of Asia Pacific (YEGAP) also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The Prime Minister said that more than 20 years after the restoration of independence, Timor-Leste must transition into a new phase of development focused on building a productive economy and expanding employment opportunities for its population.
He emphasized that political independence alone is not sufficient to guarantee national prosperity, noting that long-term stability depends on a strong productive economy, a dynamic private sector, and citizens capable of generating wealth and confidence.
Gusmão also underlined that political sovereignty must be reinforced by economic strength and sustainability. He said countries that remain heavily dependent on imports and state-driven economic activity are more exposed to external shocks, highlighting the private sector as a key pillar of long-term national stability.
The Prime Minister encouraged young entrepreneurs to take full advantage of Timor-Leste’s recent accession to ASEAN, describing it as a strategic opportunity to expand business networks and improve the country’s economic competitiveness within a rapidly growing regional market.
He also called on international investors and business partners to engage with Timorese youth through investment, skills development, and the strengthening of regional business linkages.
According to Gusmão, Timor-Leste has significant untapped potential in sectors such as energy, minerals, petroleum, tourism, and services. He pointed to major strategic projects, including Greater Sunrise and the Tasi Mane corridor, as initiatives expected to generate employment, enhance workforce skills, and support long-term economic expansion.
The government, he added, is preparing to establish a National Development Bank to improve access to finance for small businesses and young entrepreneurs with viable business ideas but limited access to credit.
The Prime Minister also noted that the generation that fought for independence secured political freedom, while today’s generation carries the responsibility of ensuring that economic development sustains that sovereignty.
He said the country’s future success would depend largely on the achievements of its young entrepreneurs, stressing that innovation, ambition, and determination among youth will be central to national economic progress.
Journalist: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Armandina Moniz
Translation: Filomeno Martins
