The Consulate of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in Bangladesh hosted a grand reception on Friday (28 November 2025) at Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of Timor-Leste. With the participation of diplomats, business leaders, and representatives of international organizations, the event became a vibrant gathering celebrating international friendship and cooperation.
Dr. Asif Nazrul, Honorable Adviser to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, attended the event as the chief guest. On behalf of the Government and the people of Bangladesh, he congratulated Timor-Leste and expressed hope that the friendly relations between the two countries would continue to grow stronger in the coming years.
Jorge Camões, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, delivered the keynote address. He said: “It is a profound honor to be in Dhaka as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our declaration of independence. After decades of struggle, sacrifice, and steadfast determination, Timor-Leste today stands as a free, strong, and democratic nation.”
He highlighted the multifaceted cooperation between Bangladesh and Timor-Leste in education, technology, agriculture, fisheries, food security, poverty alleviation, trade, investment, tourism, and peacebuilding. He also expressed gratitude for Bangladesh’s support in Timor-Leste’s journey towards full membership in ASEAN and for the contributions of Bangladeshi peacekeepers.
He further noted that Timorese students studying at the Asian University for Women in Chattogram are helping strengthen ties between the two nations.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Engineer Kutubuddin Ahmed, Consul General of Timor-Leste in Bangladesh and Chairman of Envoy Group, said: “The resilience and courage of the people of Timor-Leste inspire us all. Our nations share common values, and there is great potential for expanding cooperation in the future—particularly in trade, education, culture, and technology.”
The event was also attended by Emanuel Tilman, Director of Central, South, and East Asian Affairs at the Directorate-General for Bilateral Affairs of Asia and Oceania, Timor-Leste.
The reception featured a ceremonial cake-cutting and traditional Timorese cultural performances, adding color and warmth to the celebration. Diplomats from various countries, business leaders, and high-level dignitaries graced the occasion.
