TOKYO, 13 November — Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Japan, H.E. Maria Terezinha da Silva Viegas, accompanied by Counsellor Célio Moniz, attended the ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), held at the Tokyo International Forum.
The ceremony was attended by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, returned volunteers, and development partners, reflecting JICA’s extensive global engagement over six decades.
In his remarks, JICA President Dr. Tanaka highlighted the agency’s enduring commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development. Congratulatory messages were also delivered by representatives of the Japanese leadership, underscoring Japan’s continued role in global development initiatives.
Representing the 99 partner countries, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, delivered a keynote address acknowledging JICA’s significant contributions to human development, capacity building, and people-centered cooperation worldwide.
JICA reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting partner countries through its Volunteer Program, which remains a cornerstone of Japan’s development cooperation by fostering grassroots engagement and mutual understanding.
The participation of the Embassy of Timor-Leste in this milestone event reflects Timor-Leste’s appreciation of JICA’s long-standing partnership and its shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
