The President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, is set to embark on a historic state visit to Bangladesh from Saturday to Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in Bangladesh-Timor-Leste bilateral relations. This state visit is a pivotal moment, highlighting the growing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations. The visit, at the invitation of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, will focus on strengthening cooperation across various sectors and exploring new areas for collaboration.
As the first-ever state visit by a Timor-Leste head of state to Bangladesh, this marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. During the visit, President Ramos-Horta will engage in a series of high-level meetings and events aimed at furthering bilateral relations and deepening cooperation.
A Historic Milestone in Bangladesh-Timor-Leste Relations
The state visit by President Ramos-Horta is expected to be a historic milestone in the diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Timor-Leste. This visit underscores the longstanding relationship that began soon after Timor-Leste gained independence. Bangladesh was one of the first countries to recognise Timor-Leste following its independence in 2002, marking the beginning of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Since then, Bangladesh’s peacekeeping forces have played a critical role in stabilising Timor-Leste, helping restore peace and security after years of conflict. This contribution has been highly appreciated by the Timorese people, laying a solid foundation for future cooperation.
Key Events During the State Visit
The visit will begin with a full state reception for President Ramos-Horta, where he will be warmly welcomed by Chief Adviser Dr Yunus at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The official activities will commence with a private meeting between President Ramos-Horta and the Chief Adviser on Sunday. Following this, a bilateral meeting will take place between the two countries’ delegations, aimed at discussing areas of cooperation and future partnerships.
On the evening of Sunday, a state banquet will be hosted in honour of President Ramos-Horta. The visit will also include significant engagements on Monday, when the President will meet the President of Bangladesh at Bangabhaban, the presidential residence. The highlight of the day will be a visit to the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, where President Ramos-Horta will pay respects to the martyrs of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
One of the key moments during the visit will be the President’s participation in the 54th Victory Day celebrations on December 16, a day of great significance for Bangladesh, marking its victory over Pakistan in 1971.
On Tuesday, President Ramos-Horta will address a public lecture at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), where he will speak on “The Challenges of Peace in the Contemporary World”, offering valuable insights from his own experiences in Timor-Leste. He will also engage with Bangladesh’s youth and students, sharing his leadership journey and the path to Timor-Leste’s independence.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation: Key Areas of Discussion
Throughout the visit, a range of topics will be covered, with bilateral cooperation at the forefront. Several important agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed, marking a new chapter in diplomatic and economic ties.
Two significant agreements are expected to be signed:
- A mutual visa exemption agreement for holders of official and diplomatic passports.
- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Bilateral Consultation Mechanism between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of both countries.
These agreements will pave the way for a broader and more comprehensive partnership, benefiting both nations in key areas like trade and investment, cultural exchanges, education, and disaster management.
Additionally, an Honorary Consulate for Timor-Leste in Bangladesh is expected to be announced, further enhancing diplomatic representation between the two countries.
Future Collaborations in Key Sectors
In addition to strengthening political ties, the visit will explore potential cooperation in several important sectors:
- Trade and Investment: Bangladesh and Timor-Leste will explore avenues for expanding bilateral trade and investment, focusing on areas of mutual interest.
- Agriculture and Food Security: Collaboration in agriculture, including contract farming, animal husbandry, and deep-sea fishing, will be key topics. Food security and nutritional support are growing concerns for both nations, and joint initiatives could yield significant benefits.
- Health and Education: Discussions will include expanding educational opportunities, particularly through student and teacher exchanges, and offering joint research projects. A focus will also be placed on healthcare cooperation and improving public health systems in both countries.
- Disaster Management and SMEs: Bangladesh’s expertise in disaster management and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be of great value to Timor-Leste, which faces its own challenges in these areas.
Global and Regional Cooperation: Climate Change and ASEAN
Global and regional cooperation will also be a major focus during the visit. Both countries recognise the critical importance of addressing climate change, especially in the context of natural disasters and rising sea levels. As Timor-Leste prepares to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the next few years, this visit provides a timely opportunity for Bangladesh to strengthen its position as a Sectoral Dialogue Partner within ASEAN.
Timor-Leste’s membership in ASEAN will also offer a platform for both countries to work together in advancing shared interests, including the repatriation of Rohingya refugees and regional stability.
Educational Initiatives and Diplomatic Training
Another highlight of the visit is the announcement of a scholarship awarded by Bangladesh to a young Timorese diplomat for a Specialized Diplomatic Training Course (SDTC) and a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy (PMIRD) in 2025. This partnership will build a foundation for future leaders and diplomats from both countries, strengthening ties through higher education and diplomatic training.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for Bangladesh-Timor-Leste Relations
President José Ramos-Horta’s state visit to Bangladesh promises to be a landmark event in the strengthening of bilateral relations. Through diplomatic dialogue, the signing of key agreements, and the exploration of cooperation in education, trade, and cultural exchanges, both nations stand to benefit greatly. As Bangladesh and Timor-Leste continue to work together, this visit marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their relationship, with the potential to expand in the coming years.
Photo credit: The Guardian
