Singapore and Timor-Leste advanced bilateral cooperation through high-level engagements, the signing of a new cooperation framework, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional partnership and people-to-people ties.
Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong made an Official Visit to Timor-Leste from 2 to 3 July 2026, marking his first visit to the country as Prime Minister and the first official visit by a Singapore Prime Minister to Timor-Leste. The visit reciprocated Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão’s Official Visit to Singapore in July 2025 and underscored both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The visit featured a series of official engagements in Dili aimed at enhancing diplomatic cooperation and expanding bilateral partnerships. Prime Minister Wong was accompanied by Mrs Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, and officials from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong served as Acting Prime Minister.
As part of the visit, Prime Minister Wong met members of the Singaporean community in Dili. He acknowledged the contributions of Singaporeans living and working in Timor-Leste, noting that although the community remained relatively small, it had built strong friendships and lasting ties with the local population over the years.
On 3 July 2026, Prime Minister Wong will participate in an official welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace and call on Timor-Leste President Dr José Ramos-Horta. During the visit, Prime Minister Wong will be conferred the Order of Timor-Leste (Grand Collar) by President Ramos-Horta. The award recognises Singapore’s contributions to Timor-Leste’s national development and support for Timor-Leste’s membership in ASEAN.
Prime Minister Wong will meet Timor-Leste Prime Minister Gusmão and witness the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of Bilateral Consultations. Both Prime Ministers will hold a Joint Press Conference on the same day. Prime Minister Gusmão will also host a State Banquet Lunch for Prime Minister Wong.
Source: MFA Singapore
