(AseanAll) — The Permanent Secretariat of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries (Forum Macao) convened its 21st Regular Meeting in Macao on March 24th, 2026, with delegations from member countries, including Timor-Leste, attending to evaluate the implementation of the 2024–2027 Action Plan and to plan activities for 2026.
The delegation from Timor-Leste was represented by Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Loro Horta, and by Timor-Leste’s Delegate to the Permanent Secretariat of Forum Macao, António Ramos da Silva. The meeting was also attended by representatives from China’s Ministry of Commerce, the authorities of the Macao Special Administrative Region, diplomatic missions, and Portuguese-speaking countries, and was chaired by the Secretary-General of the Permanent Secretariat, Ji Xianzheng. During the meeting, an update on the implementation of the Action Plan was presented, along with a review of activities carried out in 2025 and the approval of the Activity Plan for 2026.
During the meeting, the delegations exchanged information on the progress achieved in implementing the agreed measures, including initiatives to promote trade, investment, and sectoral cooperation. They also discussed preparations for the upcoming Forum Macao Ministerial Conference, scheduled for 2027.
The delegation from Timor-Leste reported on the progress in implementing the Action Plan, emphasising the enhancement of air and maritime connectivity with China, the realisation of projects in tourism, fisheries, and agriculture, and the encouragement of investment, in accordance with national economic development priorities.
During the meeting, an update on the composition of the Permanent Secretariat was also provided, including new appointments to coordination and support roles.
Representatives of the Member States of the Forum Macao reaffirmed their collective commitment to strengthening economic and trade cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries.
