Dili, March 16 (AseanAll) — In a ceremony underscoring Timor-Leste’s expanding global engagement, Timor-Leste President and Nobel Peace Laureate J. Ramos-Horta received the Letters of Credence from the non-resident Ambassadors of nine countries, at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili, on March 16, 2026.
The credential ceremony marks the official commencement of the diplomatic missions of the newly accredited Ambassadors to Timor-Leste. The ceremony reinforces the nation’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and building bridges with partners across the globe.
The following non-resident Ambassadors presented their credentials to the Head of State, representing their respective nations:
1.His Excellency Mr. Serob Bejanyan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
2.His Excellency Mr. Nicholas Panayiotou, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cyprus, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
3.His Excellency Mr. Tornike Nozadze, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
4.His Excellency Dr. Wilson Kipngetich Kogo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kenya, residing in Canberra – Australia;
5.Her Excellency Mrs. Bernadette Tobin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Malta, residing in Rome – Italy;
6.His Excellency Mr. Zahid Hafeez Chaudri, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
7.His Excellency Mr. Simon Wallace Namis, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Papua New Guinea, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
8.Her Excellency Mrs. Ivana Golubovic-Duboca, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Serbia, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
9.His Excellency Mr. Bernardo de Sicart Escoda, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Spain, residing in Jakarta – Indonesia;
Ramos-Horta warmly welcomed the diplomats to Timor-Leste, expressing the nation’s appreciation for the formal establishment of their diplomatic ties. President conveyed his strong commitment to deepening bilateral relations with each represented country.
“The diversity of nations gathered here today—from our near neighbors in the Asia-Pacific to partners across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond—reflects the universal nature of Timor-Leste’s foreign policy,” stated President Ramos-Horta. “We are a small nation with a big heart and a global outlook. We look forward to working closely with each of you to build partnerships based on mutual respect, shared prosperity, and our common desire for a peaceful and sustainable world.”
The President emphasized the critical importance of international collaboration in navigating global challenges and advancing shared objectives related to peace, security, and sustainable development.
The Ambassadors conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from their respective Heads of State and governments. They reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing the bonds of friendship and exploring new avenues for cooperation with Timor-Leste.
This credential ceremony highlights Timor-Leste’s growing international profile and the continued expansion of its diplomatic relations since the restoration of its independence in 2002.
