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Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, met with President José Ramos-Horta of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste on February 7, 2026, according to official reports. The meeting took place during the Timorese president’s working visit to the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step in UAE Timor-Leste relations.
The high-level discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations and exploring opportunities for enhanced cooperation across multiple sectors. According to the Emirates News Agency, the leaders examined ways to advance collaboration in areas of mutual interest, particularly in economic and developmental sectors that support sustainable development priorities in both countries.
Bilateral Cooperation and Economic Development
The meeting between Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed and President Ramos-Horta centered on expanding partnership pathways that would benefit both nations and their peoples. The discussions emphasized economic cooperation as a cornerstone of UAE Timor-Leste relations, with both sides exploring investment opportunities and development initiatives. Such bilateral engagement reflects the UAE’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with emerging democracies in Southeast Asia.
Additionally, the leaders reviewed mechanisms to support sustainable development goals in both countries through targeted collaboration. The focus on developmental sectors underscores the shared commitment to long-term growth and prosperity that extends beyond traditional diplomatic relations.
Strategic Importance of the Meeting
The working visit by President Ramos-Horta represents an important diplomatic milestone for Timor-Leste, one of Asia’s youngest democracies. For the UAE, the engagement demonstrates its commitment to expanding international partnerships across diverse regions. However, specific details regarding concrete agreements or memorandums of understanding were not disclosed in official statements.
Meanwhile, the meeting highlights the UAE’s growing interest in Southeast Asian markets and its role as a development partner for emerging economies. Timor-Leste, rich in natural resources including oil and gas, presents opportunities for UAE expertise in energy sector development and economic diversification.
Senior Officials Attend UAE Timor-Leste Talks
The meeting was attended by several senior Emirati officials, according to the official statement. Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Crown Prince’s Office, participated in the discussions. Additionally, Abdullah Salem Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Indonesia and non-resident Ambassador to Timor-Leste and ASEAN, was present during the talks.
In contrast to many bilateral meetings that result in immediate announcements of specific initiatives, this engagement focused on foundational discussions for future cooperation. The presence of the UAE’s ambassador accredited to ASEAN signals the broader regional dimension of the relationship beyond purely bilateral considerations.
Regional and International Context
Timor-Leste’s outreach to the UAE comes as the Southeast Asian nation seeks to diversify its international partnerships and economic base. The country has been working to reduce its dependence on oil revenues while building sustainable economic structures. Furthermore, the UAE’s experience in economic diversification and infrastructure development makes it a valuable partner for Timor-Leste’s development aspirations.
The meeting also reflects the UAE’s diplomatic strategy of building bridges with countries across different regions and development stages. Such engagement strengthens the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade, investment, and international cooperation.
Authorities have not announced specific timelines for follow-up meetings or the implementation of cooperation frameworks discussed during President Ramos-Horta’s visit. Further details regarding concrete outcomes from the bilateral talks are expected to emerge as both governments finalize areas of collaboration and partnership agreements.
