Timor-Leste Seeks Strategic Partnership with Malaysia, as Deputy PM Holds Talks

Kuala Lumpur, December 4, 2023 – Timor-Leste’s Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, arrived in Kuala Lumpur for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between Timor-Leste and Malaysia.

In a warm welcome at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the Timor-Leste delegation was greeted by Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Joana Veneranda Amaral, and Datuk Mohd Aini Atan, Head of Protocol for the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This arrival marks the beginning of a series of discussions expected to formulate a more robust framework for cooperation in various sectors.

Deputy Prime Minister Kalbuadi Lay stated that the purpose of this visit is to discuss and strategize economic cooperation between the two countries. “With this visit, we hope to build closer collaboration in trade, investment, tourism, and the environment,” he said.

The agenda of the visit involves high-level meetings with Malaysian government officials, including business discussions with the aim of identifying concrete opportunities for bilateral collaboration. Timor-Leste also explores cooperation opportunities in the tourism and environmental sectors, aligning with both countries’ commitment to sustainable development.

“We are optimistic that this visit will have a positive impact on our bilateral relationship, opening new opportunities and enhancing the strategic partnership between Timor-Leste and Malaysia,” added the Deputy Prime Minister.

The meetings and discussions during this visit are expected to result in concrete agreements and strengthen the relationship between the two countries, creating a solid foundation for mutually beneficial long-term cooperation.