Dili, May 28, 2026 (Lusa) – Timor-Leste's government and the European Union Director for International Partnerships for Asia and the Pacific, Peteris Ustubs, discussed on Thursday strengthening cooperation for state modernisation, regional integration, and maritime infrastructure development.

"The meeting reflected the mutual desire to continue deepening cooperation between Timor-Leste and the European Union, based on mutual respect, trust, sustainability, and a common vision of prosperity and stability," Timor-Leste's government stated in a press release.

The EU Director for International Partnerships for Asia and the Pacific is in Dili to participate on Friday in the signing of two financing agreements for two development programmes focused on sustainable business and e-governance for the judicial system.

The current bilateral cooperation framework, which ends next year, was addressed during a meeting with the cabinet office minister, Agio Pereira. This framework provides support for areas such as governance, sustainable economic development, regional integration, and digital transition.

"Opportunities for cooperation linked to the regional integration process in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Timor-Leste's participation in regional initiatives within the Indo-Pacific framework were also discussed, as well as new emerging areas of cooperation," Timor-Leste's government said.

Key areas include the digital transformation of public administration, the interoperability of state information systems, the strengthening of national cybersecurity capabilities, and the development of strategic maritime infrastructure.

"The discussions also addressed strengthening cooperation in cybersecurity and digital security, including institutional capacity building, cyber incident response mechanisms, the protection of critical digital infrastructure, and reinforcing the resilience of public institutions," it read.

MSE/RYOL // AYLS

Lusa