Chief Minister
Media Release Chief Minister to strengthen NT’s long-standing partnership with Timor-Leste
8 September 2026
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro to visit Timor-Leste for top-level discussions about NT-Timor-Leste Strategic Partnership Agreement 2023-27.
Visit will focus on workforce development, skills and training, as well as stronger connections between the jurisdictions.
Chief Minister will meet with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and President Jose Manuel Ramos-Horta.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro will travel to Timor-Leste today for her first official visit as Chief Minister to focus on delivering practical outcomes under the Northern Territory-Timor-Leste Strategic Partnership Agreement 2023-27 (SPA).
The visit will have a particular focus on workforce development, skills and training, education, economic opportunities and stronger connections between the two jurisdictions.
During the visit, the Chief Minister will meet with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and President Jose Manuel Ramos-Horta.
The Chief Minister said Timor-Leste was an important regional partner for the Territory, with strong historical, community, cultural and institutional connections between the people of Timor-Leste and the Territory.
“Timor-Leste is not simply our neighbour – it is a long-standing friend and partner of the Territory,” the Chief Minister said.
“Our relationship is built on deep connections between our people, institutions and communities, and the Strategic Partnership Agreement gives us a strong framework to take that relationship forward.”
The SPA provides a framework for cooperation and exchange across education, business and workforce, trade and investment, tourism, emergency preparedness, agriculture, health, sport, arts and culture.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is focused on turning that framework into practical partnerships that deliver benefits for people in both jurisdictions, including strengthening cooperation on skills and workforce development.
“The Territory is entering a period of significant economic growth, with major opportunities across resources, energy, construction, infrastructure, defence, tourism, health and other sectors increasing demand for skilled workers,” the Chief Minister said.
“At the same time, Timor-Leste is also investing in developing the skills and capabilities of its workforce.”
