Dili, September 9 (AseanAll)  — President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta welcomed a high-level parliamentary delegation from Japan at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili on September 9, 2026, marking the first official visit by Japanese lawmakers to Timor-Leste in 23 years. 

Led by Representative Takashi Endo, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with the Head of State aimed at deepening the enduring friendship and expanding multi-sectoral cooperation between the two nations. During the meeting, the Japanese delegation also expressed robust support for Timor-Leste’s ongoing integration into ASEAN and its anticipated future chairmanship of the regional bloc.

A central pillar of the dialogue focused on advancing critical infrastructure and economic development within Timor-Leste to drive job creation. The meeting highlighted promising Japanese private sector investments, notably by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, which plans to establish a ship manufacturing facility in Manatuto to generate significant local employment, alongside Itochu Corporation’s upcoming solar energy initiatives. President Ramos-Horta welcomed these commitments, recognizing that such concrete economic diplomacy is vital for empowering the local workforce and advancing sustainable community development.

Beyond economic growth, both parties underscored the importance of shared security initiatives, particularly the urgent need to collaboratively combat transnational cybercrimes and global online scam syndicates operating within the region. Reaffirming a mutual commitment to eradicate these illicit activities, the meeting concluded with a shared vision to foster denser, long-lasting ties. 

Through continuous dialogue facilitated by the Japanese Embassy, both nations remain dedicated to ensuring a prosperous, secure, and highly collaborative future for the next generations of Timor-Leste and Japan.