Dili, January 14 (AseanAll)  —The President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta, received on January 14, 2026 at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace the Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, and Minister of Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, for a strategic briefing on the Government’s priorities for the year 2026.

The meeting highlighted the strong ongoing cooperation between the Presidency and the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, specifically regarding the coordination of major sporting and cultural events scheduled for 2026. The Vice Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working closely with the Head of State to ensure these national initiatives promote a positive image of Timor-Leste.

During the audience, Kalbuadi Lay updated the President on the administration’s transition into what has been designated as the “Year of Action.” Following the directives of the Prime Minister, the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs is intensifying efforts to drive growth across key sectors, including agriculture, telecommunications, fisheries, and forestry. These efforts aim to address current global economic challenges and ensure that the national budget translates into tangible progress for the country.

A central point of the discussion was the Government’s strategy to attract international investment and the future establishment of the National Development Bank. Minister Lay informed the President that this new financial institution will be instrumental in empowering local entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By providing accessible credit and support, the Government aims to stimulate economic activity at the grassroots level, ensuring that development reaches all Timorese citizens.