Dili, www.news-viptv.com – France is seeking to expand its strategic engagement with Timor-Leste, placing stronger economic ties, security cooperation and investment opportunities at the centre of its bilateral agenda. The renewed commitment comes as both countries explore new partnerships in renewable energy, tourism and marine conservation, following high-level talks between Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and French Ambassador Fabien Penone in Dili.
The discussions took place at the Government Palace in Dili on Friday, November 6, following a meeting between Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and France’s non-resident Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Fabien Penone.
Speaking after the meeting, Penone emphasized that strengthening relations with Timor-Leste remained a priority for the French Government. He said France was committed to diversifying its partnerships and expanding cooperation across several strategic sectors.
“We are continuing to strengthen relations between France and Timor-Leste. This is a priority for the French Government. We are working to diversify our partnerships in various sectors,” Penone said.
During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in defence and security, culture, higher education, trade and economic development.
In the defence and security sector, Penone explained that France already had a security attaché responsible for Timor-Leste.
Both countries are also continuing discussions on strengthening cooperation in policing and civil protection.
These areas are expected to provide further opportunities for institutional cooperation and capacity development between the two countries.
Penone highlighted a solar power plant project in Manatuto involving French energy company EDF, which recently held its launch ceremony.
The project represents an important area of economic cooperation, particularly in supporting Timor-Leste’s transition towards renewable energy and diversifying its energy sources.
France’s involvement in the project also reflects opportunities for greater private-sector participation in Timor-Leste’s energy development.
France considers Timor-Leste to have significant tourism development potential, particularly given its natural landscapes, marine biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Penone also highlighted a project being developed to establish a marine protected area around Atauro Island, which was among the topics discussed with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.
The initiative aims to support marine ecosystem conservation and promote sustainable development, particularly in areas with significant ecological and tourism value.
Atauro Island is considered an important destination for marine tourism and biodiversity conservation, offering opportunities to connect environmental protection with sustainable economic activities.
Beyond security and investment, France and Timor-Leste are also seeking to strengthen cooperation in culture, higher education and trade.
These sectors remain important elements of the broader bilateral relationship, providing opportunities for educational exchanges, cultural collaboration and stronger economic connections.
The latest discussions demonstrate the two countries’ intention to broaden their partnership beyond traditional diplomatic relations and develop practical cooperation that can contribute to Timor-Leste’s national development.
Diplomatic relations between France and Timor-Leste were established in 2002, following Timor-Leste’s restoration of independence on May 20 of that year.
Since then, relations between the two countries have developed through diplomatic engagement, development cooperation, education, culture and economic investment.
Initially, the French Ambassador based in Jakarta, Indonesia, was also accredited to represent France in Timor-Leste. France subsequently established a cooperation office in Dili to support and monitor development programmes in the country.
Over the years, political and diplomatic engagement has continued through high-level visits and international forums.
In November 2018, José Ramos-Horta participated in the Paris Peace Forum in France. In January 2024, he also visited Paris, where he met with the French President and French parliamentary leaders to strengthen political and diplomatic relations.
In the economic sector, French company Bolloré was previously involved in the development of Tibar Bay Port, one of Timor-Leste’s major public-private partnership infrastructure projects. The port represented an important milestone in the country’s efforts to attract international investment and develop its logistics infrastructure.
France has also supported cooperation programmes in education, scientific research, environmental protection, biodiversity and gender equality.
Scientific and development cooperation has involved French research institutions, including the Institute of Research for Development (IRD) and the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD)
France and Timor-Leste continue to explore new opportunities to expand their bilateral partnership, particularly in defence, security, renewable energy, tourism, education and environmental protection.
The discussions between Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and Ambassador Fabien Penone reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic engagement and develop practical partnerships that can deliver economic and development opportunities for Timor-Leste.
With more than two decades of diplomatic relations since 2002, both countries are looking to build on their existing cooperation and explore new areas of collaboration for the future.
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