Dili, Aug. 31, 2026 (Lusa) - The governments of Timor-Leste and Australia, together with a property association from the Northern Territory, are to hold a business forum in October to strengthen trade relations and discuss investment opportunities.

«Timor-Leste is open for business. Our accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has expanded our market and bolstered confidence in our economy,» said Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, Timor-Leste's Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister for Tourism and the Environment, in a press release.

The event will take place from 27 to 30 October and comprises two programmes: ‘Invest Timor-Leste 2026', organised by the Timorese and Australian governments, Trade Invest Timor-Leste and the Timor-Leste Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and a business and investment summit.

The Property Council of the Northern Territory (Australia) will lead the business and investment summit, which will include market briefing sessions.

«Australia is our close and trusted neighbour, as well as a natural partner in the tourism, agriculture and energy sectors,» explained the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs.

According to Ruth Palmer, Chief Executive of the Northern Territory Property Council, the summit aims to bring together «the right people in the same room to forge connections, build real partnerships and achieve real business outcomes».

«Northern Australia and Timor-Leste share geographical proximity, history and opportunities. This conference aims to transform that proximity into practical partnerships,» said Ruth Palmer.

Australia's Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Caitlin Wilson, emphasised that bringing businesses together with the support of both governments is one of the «ways to build lasting commercial relationships», noting that trade relations between the two countries continue to grow.

MSE/ADB // ADB.

Lusa