From 28 to 29 January, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese undertook his first official visit to Timor-Leste as Prime Minister. During the visit, he met with His Excellency President Dr José Ramos-Horta and His Excellency Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.The Prime Minister also addressed the Parliament of Timor-Leste.
Australia and Timor-Leste are taking our old friendship to a new level 🇦🇺🇹🇱
Today, Prime Minister Gusmão and I agreed to elevate our partnership.
With new economic and security cooperation that will create jobs, and help our countries meet new challenges we face.
Because… pic.twitter.com/XzXsZmwG6D— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) January 28, 2026
Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Gusmão signed a joint declaration establishing Parseria Foun ba Era Foun, which is Tetum for a New Partnership for a New Era.
The leaders agreed upon a shared commitment to:
- a peaceful, stable and prosperous region
- cooperation, consultation and mutual respect for national sovereignty
- support Timor-Leste’s nation building priorities
- strengthen community links.
Working together, our region is stronger. 🇦🇺🇹🇱 pic.twitter.com/d1gOenu7Wg
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) January 28, 2026
The declaration cements the growing economic, security and development partnerships between Australia and Timor-Leste. “It reflects our longstanding friendship and sets out our shared vision for the future,” said Prime Minister Albanese.
Prime Minister Albanese also announced an Economic Cooperation Package for Timor‑Leste, which includes a further $8.2 million to support its participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organization.
The package also includes an $80 million Private Sector Development Program to support Timor-Leste's economic diversification and private sector growth through access to credit, business services and marketing support.
Australia’s relationship with our closest neighbours matters.
There’s so much potential in our region. Working together, we can make the most of it.
That’s why I’ve come to Timor-Leste today, and got straight to work meeting with President Ramos-Horta. pic.twitter.com/gEQLtZWvro— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) January 28, 2026
The package reaffirms Australia's commitment to working with Timor-Leste to support peace, stability, and prosperity for the Timorese people and our shared region.