In a historic first, President José Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste visited India, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the two nations. His January 8-10 visit coincided with the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in Gandhinagar, where he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, laying the groundwork for strengthened ties and mutual support.
The summit served as a platform for fostering a “vibrant Delhi-Dili connect,” as Prime Minister Modi described it. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to Timor-Leste’s development, offering assistance in crucial areas like healthcare, IT, fintech, energy, and traditional medicine.
Recognizing Timor-Leste’s aspirations, Prime Minister Modi extended invitations to join the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, underscoring India’s commitment to sustainable development and regional resilience. He applauded ASEAN’s decision to welcome Timor-Leste as its 11th member and expressed hope for its speedy integration.
President Horta expressed his gratitude for India’s warm welcome and sought India’s support in tackling Timor-Leste’s development challenges, particularly in healthcare and IT capacity building. This exchange highlighted the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation, where India’s expertise can empower Timor-Leste’s growth.
Beyond bilateral concerns, the leaders delved into regional and global issues, discussing developments in the Indo-Pacific. Notably, President Horta threw his weight behind India’s bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council, showcasing Timor-Leste’s recognition of India’s growing stature on the world stage.
Furthermore, both leaders acknowledged the importance of collaboration among nations of the Global South, expressing a desire to synergize their positions on global issues. This shared vision paves the way for a more unified voice for developing countries, advocating for their interests on the international platform.
The India-Timor-Leste relationship rests on a strong foundation of shared democratic values and mutual respect. As one of the first countries to recognize Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002, India has consistently supported its journey towards nationhood.
President Horta’s visit marks a significant turning point in this bilateral relationship. With a focus on development cooperation, regional collaboration, and a shared commitment to the Global South, India and Timor-Leste have embarked on a promising journey of partnership. This bridge across oceans signifies a blossoming alliance with the potential to shape a more just and equitable world order in the years to come.