Dili, January 28 (AseanAll) — On 28 January 2026, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste and Nobel Peace Laureate, J. Ramos-Horta, welcomed the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese MP, on an two day official visit to Timor-Leste.
The visit signals the enduring partnership between the two nations.
Ramos-Horta, together with Timor-Leste Prime Minister Gusmão, Vice-Prime Ministers, members of the Government, and the diplomatic corps, greeted Prime Minister Albanese upon his arrival at Nicolau Lobato International Airport with a traditional Timorese welcome ceremony.
In a gesture that reflects the personal bonds of friendship, Ramos-Horta drove his Moke Electric Vehicle from the airport to the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace, accompanied by Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.
At the Presidential Palace, Albanese was honored with an official welcome ceremony, featuring the national anthems of both countries, inspection of the Guard of Honour and followed with the introduction of delegation from both countries. The two leaders proceeded to the ASEAN Hall for the signing of the guest book and an official photograph, followed by a meeting between the two leaders, accompanied by their members of delegations.
During the meeting, Ramos-Horta expressed Timor-Leste’s profound gratitude for Australia’s steadfast development support across multiple sectors. Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in economic diversification, maritime security, human capital development. The leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening labour mobility under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and advancing security cooperation under the 2022 bilateral agreement, which encompasses defence training and police capacity building. Further discussions emphasized support for private sector growth and major strategic projects, including the Greater Sunrise development.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of gifts between the two leaders.
In the afternoon, Ramos-Horta conferred upon Prime Minister Albanese the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the nation’s highest honor, in recognition of his dedication to strengthening bilateral ties.
Reflecting on the partnership, Ramos-Horta stated: “Timor-Leste and Australia are not just neighbors—we are family. Our shared history, common values, and our commitment to peace and prosperity bind us together. Today, we reaffirm our pledge to walk side by side toward a future of security, opportunity, and enduring friendship.”
Timor-Leste and Australia established formal diplomatic relations in 2002. Today, the partnership spans political, economic, security, and socio-cultural cooperation, reflecting a shared vision for a stable, prosperous, and connected region.
