PNG and Timor-Leste strengthen ties as Ramos-Horta ends State visit

Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste have reaffirmed their growing diplomatic partnership following the departure of Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta from Port Moresby on Wednesday afternoon.

President Ramos-Horta wrapped up his three-day State visit at Jacksons International Airport, where he was farewelled by PNG Prime Minister James Marape shortly before 2pm.

The visit is being viewed as an important step in strengthening cooperation between Port Moresby and Dili, with both leaders holding talks aimed at improving bilateral relations between the neighbouring countries.

Before leaving PNG, President Ramos-Horta paid a courtesy visit to the residence of Indonesia’s Ambassador-designate to Papua New Guinea, Okto Dorinus Marik.

Mr Marik, who previously served as Indonesia’s ambassador to Timor-Leste, hosted the Timorese leader for a light lunch in Port Moresby before the President travelled to the airport for his departure.

Prime Minister Marape, who had earlier welcomed President Ramos-Horta with a military guard of honour at the beginning of the visit, was again present to officially farewell him.

The final handshake between the two leaders on the tarmac reflected their commitment to building closer diplomatic and regional cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste in the years ahead.