Timor-Leste Ready To Host 19th CPLP Conference of Justice Ministers

DILI, Timor-Leste is preparing to bring together justice leaders from Portuguese-speaking nations in Dili for a high-level conference focused on tackling organized crime and illegal gambling, as the country strengthens its role in international legal cooperation. The 19th Conference of Justice Ministers of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) is scheduled for 26–27 October 2026.

The country’s readiness was reported by Minister of Justice Sérgio de Jesus Fernandes da Costa Hornai to Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão during a meeting at the Government Palace in Dili on Monday (19 October 2026).

During the meeting, the Minister of Justice briefed the Prime Minister on preparations undertaken by the ministry, together with the working team and relevant government institutions, to ensure the conference proceeds according to plan.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the minister to report on the progress of government programmes in the justice sector, particularly preparations for the 19th conference involving CPLP member states.

The preparations go beyond organising a diplomatic meeting. They also reflect Timor-Leste’s responsibilities as the holder of the CPLP’s rotating presidency.

To support the event, the Ministry of Justice is continuing to coordinate with relevant institutions on the technical, organisational and substantive aspects of the conference.

One of the key issues expected to be discussed is organised crime, including illegal gambling, which poses challenges to security, stability and justice systems in member countries.

Transnational crime requires coordinated responses because criminal activities can cross national borders and involve networks operating across different jurisdictions.

CPLP member states will therefore have an opportunity to strengthen cooperation through information sharing, improved legal mechanisms and coordinated measures to prevent and combat transnational crime.

The conference will also provide a platform for justice ministers to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges and explore ways to improve cooperation in the justice sector.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão directed the Ministry of Justice and relevant institutions to continue strengthening preparations and coordination to ensure the successful organisation of the conference.

The directive highlights the importance of inter-institutional cooperation in enabling Timor-Leste to fulfil its role as host and facilitate constructive dialogue among CPLP member states.

The 19th Conference of Justice Ministers is expected to produce the Dili Declaration, a joint document outlining the member states’ commitments and approaches to justice cooperation and combating transnational crime, based on agreements reached during the conference.

The declaration could serve as an important reference for strengthening cooperation between countries, improving justice systems and promoting coordinated responses to organised crime at regional and global levels.

With preparations continuing, Timor-Leste is set to welcome delegations from CPLP member states to Dili, providing an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic relations and reaffirm their shared commitment to cooperation in the justice sector.