(AseanAll)  — The President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta, officially welcomed on  9 July 2026 at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili, the Fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Dr. (H.C.) Megawati Soekarnoputri.

Marking her historic return to Dili since the restoration of Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002, the Head of State proudly conferred upon Ibu Megawati Soekarnoputri the Grande Collar of the Ordem de Timor-Leste (Grand Collar Order of Timor-Leste), the nation’s highest honour, in profound recognition of her pivotal contributions to bilateral reconciliation and the strengthening of the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Following the solemn investiture ceremony, Ramos-Horta hosted an official luncheon in honour of the distinguished guest. He was joined by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and high-ranking state representatives to celebrate the deep ties of friendship between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.

This was followed by a Keynote Lecture delivered by Ibu Megawati, during which she shared reflections on regional peace, leadership, and forward-looking cooperation, highlighting the importance of the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Timor-Leste.

The official activities culminated in a joint press statement, in which both parties reflected on the remarkable trajectory of mutual trust, reconciliation, and cooperation between the two countries. On behalf of the Timorese State, President Ramos-Horta highlighted the historic visit as a powerful symbol of unity, stating it to be “a testament to the enduring friendship and deep historical ties between Timor-Leste and Indonesia,” while also reaffirming Timor-Leste’s unwavering commitment to a future of shared prosperity for both peoples.