(AseanAll) — On February 19th, 2025, Timor-Leste President and Nobel Peace Laureate José Ramos-Horta welcomed diplomatic representatives accredited to Timor-Leste from around the world to the 2025 Annual Diplomatic Reception at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace.
The event, themed “Building Bridges, Fostering Partnerships,” underscores Timor-Leste’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting international cooperation.
The three-day diplomatic program began with a Credential Ceremony for new ambassadors from 12 nations, followed by the Annual Diplomatic Official Reception at the Presidential Palace.
In his welcome remarks, Ramos-Horta stated, “It is a real pleasure to welcome you for the Annual Diplomatic Reception. Special welcome to the non-resident ambassadors and staff who have taken the time to be here with us. This year’s theme, “Building Bridges, Fostering Partnerships”, is about our relationships and commitments to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation. We are forever grateful for the unwavering support of the international community in helping us face the challenges of our journey since 1974 and since 1999.
The President highlighted the nation’s significant diplomatic and economic achievements, including its recent World Trade Organization accession and forthcoming ASEAN membership. He emphasized the country’s prudent financial management, maintaining a debt-to-GDP ratio of 16% while pursuing ambitious development goals.
The reception also celebrated several significant milestones for Timor-Leste, including recent historic visits by Pope Francisco, the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, the President of India, and the UN Secretary-General, as well as the 25th Anniversary of INTERFET, demonstrating the nation’s growing international significance.
“We continue to build an oasis of peace in an increasingly unpredictable world — a multiethnic, multilingual, ecumenical, and global nation,” President Ramos-Horta emphasized. “We are committed to contributing to peace, security, and progress, both in regional development and on the international stage.”
The reception featured cultural displays, including a Tais exhibition of UNESCO-recognized heritage and a painting exhibition celebrating Timorese artistic traditions. The program expanded this year to include a presentation of the government’s 2025 Development Plan at the Ministry of Finance Auditorium, outlining strategic infrastructure projects and investment opportunities for international partners. The event concludes with an excursion to Lauhata in Liquiçá Municipality, showcasing Timor-Leste’s natural beauty and tourism potential.
Through the 2025 Annual Diplomatic Reception, Timor-Leste reaffirms its commitment to playing a growing role in the international community and contributing to a more just, inclusive, and cooperative global environment.
