DILI, 30 May 2026 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste took part in the 2026 Global Forum on Poverty Reduction and Development (GPPAD), held in Beijing and bringing together representatives from around 60 countries and international organisations to discuss cooperation strategies aimed at combating poverty and promoting sustainable development.
The Timorese delegation was led by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister Coordinator for Social Affairs and Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, who participated in discussions focused on development monitoring, international assistance, food security and sustainable development policies.
During his address, Mariano Sabino expressed his gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the International Poverty Reduction Centre in China for organising the event, highlighting the importance of the theme, “The Global Partnership for Poverty Alleviation and Development”, in strengthening international solidarity and cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that poverty is not merely an economic challenge but also an issue linked to human dignity, social stability and sustainable development. In this regard, he argued that poverty reduction should be regarded as a shared responsibility of the international community.
He reaffirmed the Timorese Government’s commitment to food security, which it considers one of the fundamental pillars of social stability, public well-being and economic growth. He also noted that, as a developing nation and a new member of ASEAN, Timor-Leste continues to prioritise rural development, agricultural modernisation, youth employment, community housing improvement and human resource development.
He further highlighted the strategic role of the fisheries sector in reducing poverty, promoting social inclusion and strengthening food security at both local and national levels.
Mariano Sabino also took the opportunity to acknowledge China’s achievements in eradicating extreme poverty, noting that lifting nearly 800 million people out of extreme poverty represents a historic milestone and demonstrates how consistent policies and long-term strategic planning can deliver significant results.
The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed Timor-Leste’s appreciation for China’s continued support, both during the country’s struggle for independence and throughout its national development process, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare and institutional capacity building.
Regarding the Global Partnership for Poverty Alleviation and Development (GPPAD), Timor-Leste welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important platform for knowledge-sharing, capacity-building and international cooperation.
The Timorese Government reiterated its readiness to participate actively in activities and programmes promoted through the partnership and reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to advance inclusive and sustainable development.
The forum concluded with a call on the international community to strengthen solidarity, partnerships and practical cooperation in order to build a more prosperous, inclusive and poverty-free future for people around the world.
TATOLI
