DILI, 26 March 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste’s ambassador to China, Loro Horta, and its delegate to the Permanent Secretariat, António Ramos da Silva, represented the country at the Forum for Economic and Trade Co-operation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Macao), also known as Forum Macao.
The 21st Ordinary Meeting of the Forum was held March 24 in Macau, where member states, including Timor-Leste, reviewed progress on the 2024–2027 Action Plan and outlined activities for 2026.
The meeting was attended by representatives from China’s Ministry of Commerce, the Macao Special Administrative Region authorities, diplomatic missions and Portuguese-speaking countries. It was chaired by Secretary-General Ji Xianzheng.
During the meeting, Ambassador Loro Horta highlighted progress in implementing the Action Plan, particularly in strengthening air and maritime connectivity with China, advancing projects in tourism, fisheries and agriculture, and promoting investment in line with its national economic development priorities.
At the forum, participants reviewed the implementation of the Action Plan, assessed activities carried out in 2025, and approved the programme of activities for 2026.
Delegations also exchanged updates on progress in key areas, including trade promotion, investment and sectoral cooperation, while discussing preparations for the next Ministerial Conference of the Macao Forum, scheduled for 2027.
The Secretariat also presented updates to its composition, including new appointments to coordination and support roles.
Representatives of member states reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening economic and trade cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
