"My last visit to Angola was during my first presidency, if I'm not mistaken, in 2011. We really want to boost and expand diplomatic relations, consultation, concertation, also, the search for greater cooperation", said Ramos-Horta, in press statements.
According to the Timorese President, João Lourenço's visit to Timor-Leste could result in the signing of new cooperation agreements between the two countries, which maintain active cooperation at bilateral level and within the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP).
José Ramos-Horta also advanced the possibility of Timor-Leste joining, later this year, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as the 11th member state.
"If we don't join this year, by 2025 at the latest. But from this year onwards we have already participated in all meetings, ministerial summits in the region without yet the formality of being a full member", he said.
According to José Ramos-Horta, in this context, Timor-Leste can be a great platform for Angola's economic and commercial interests in the region. "It is a great opportunity for Angolan economic interests or those of other CPLP countries, speaking of the economic aspect. But in addition to the economic aspect, there is always the cultural and linguistic aspect that we are interested in expanding", he added.
José Ramos-Horta wants a greater Angolan presence in Timor-Leste, especially for the reinforcement of cooperation in the areas of human resources, where he recognizes that there are many difficulties.
"We are not talking about support in financial terms, it is support in sending Angolan human resources in areas that are a priority for us, Public Administration, Justice, also the sector of Non-Renewable Resources", he maintained.
The Timorese President highlighted the fact that his country is a "modest" oil and gas producer that needs Angola's support in the exchange of experience in the management of non-renewable resources.
The two heads of state held this meeting in Brasília, where they participated in the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected President of Brazil, Luís Inácio Lula da Silva, held this Sunday.
