Dili, February 11 (AseanAll)  — On February 11, 2026,President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta attended the Inauguration Ceremony of the 4th Council and the 2026 Annual Meeting of the Association of Chinese Youth Entrepreneurs in Timor-Leste. 

Addressing the gathering, the President expressed his profound support for the association’s leadership, encouraging young entrepreneurs to lead with vision and creativity. The Head of the State highlighted the importance of their role in the nation’s future, urging them to build upon the foundations laid by previous generations who have long been part of the Timorese social fabric.

During his remarks, the Head of State paid a moving tribute to the ancestors of the Chinese-Timorese community, recalling their presence in the country’s most remote municipalities. The President noted that even in the most isolated areas, these families provided essential services through trade, which the president described as a vital component of national development. The President emphasized his deep respect for their historical perseverance, noting that many stayed and served the community despite facing extreme poverty and the hardships of the 1975 conflict.

The President reaffirmed his close ties with the community, praising the work of Association President Kathleen Gonçalves and the ongoing collaboration with the Chinese Embassy. Ramos-Horta concluded by recognizing the community’s deep-rooted identity, stating that they are “very Timorese” in their commitment to the country. Thanking the Chinese Embassy for its continued support of Timor-Leste, President Ramos-Horta wished the association great success in its mission to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.