DILI, 15 September 2025 – The National Parliament of Timor-Leste has officially opened its third legislative session in Dili. The event was attended by the President of the Republic, Dr. José Ramos-Horta, and other key state entities, including the Vice Minister for Parliamentary Affairs.
The ceremony, held on Monday, September 15, 2025, featured political statements from the parliamentary caucuses, highlighting both past achievements and future challenges.
During the session, the parliamentary caucuses presented their visions for the new legislature. The CNRT caucus highlighted Timor-Leste’s progress in consolidating political stability and strengthening democratic institutions. At the same time, they called for economic diversification—with investments in agriculture, fisheries, and tourism—to reduce dependence on oil.
The PD’s bench highlighted the coalition government’s progress and success during the second legislative session, mentioning the maintenance of political stability and advancements in regional and international integration, such as accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
The Fretilin’s bench reinforced its commitment to democracy, social justice, and national sovereignty, expressing the desire for Parliament to create laws and policies that address the challenges of poverty and unemployment.
Meanwhile, the KHUNTO’s bench caucus emphasized the significant difficulties the population faces in basic areas like health, education, infrastructure, and clean water. They urged Parliament and the government to work together to find lasting solutions.
Additionally, the PLP’s bench advocated for the importance of Parliament representing sovereign people and the need for reform to produce quality legislation.
The plenary concluded with a speech by the President of the Republic, Dr. José Ramos-Horta, who spoke about the nation’s progress and future challenges. “Our country has made great progress in the last decade, but there are still challenges that require our attention, especially concerning social and economic development,” he said.
The President further emphasized his confidence in the parliamentarians’ work, stating, “I am certain that this Parliament will produce quality legislation to serve our people.” The Head of State officially declared the opening of the third legislative session, marking a new phase for parliamentary work.
The solemn session was chaired by the President of the National Parliament, Maria Fernanda Lay. Also in attendance were the President of the Republic, Dr. José Ramos Horta; the Acting Prime Minister and Vice Prime Minister, Coordinator of Economic Affairs; the President of the Court of Appeal; the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces; the Commander-General of the National Police of Timor-Leste; and a delegation from the European Union. ©MediaGVMAP