GIFU, 19 May 2026 — H.E. Maria Terezinha Viegas, Ambassador of Timor-Leste to Japan, together with her delegation, conducted an official visit to Gifu University with the aim of strengthening bilateral academic cooperation and enhancing educational collaboration between Timor-Leste and Japan.
Following a warm reception from Timorese students currently studying at Gifu University, Ambassador Viegas proceeded with a courtesy meeting with faculty members of Gifu University who, over the years and in collaboration with JICA, have played an important role in supporting Timorese students pursuing higher education and research opportunities in Japan.
The Embassy delegation included Ms. Faviola Henriques da Cruz, Administrative and Finance Technician of the Embassy of Timor-Leste in Japan; Mr. João Mendonça, Labor Technician; and Ms. Ana Fragoso, Assistant to the Ambassador.
Representing Gifu University were Professor Lim Lee Wah, Vice President in charge of International Affairs; Professor Kume Tetsuji from the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering; Professor Ohtani Tomoyuki from the Department of Civil Engineering; Associate Professor Fukai Hidekazu; and Associate Professor Tamura Satoshi.
During the meeting, Ambassador Viegas expressed her sincere appreciation for the longstanding partnership and continued commitment demonstrated by Gifu University in providing quality academic opportunities and a supportive environment for students from Timor-Leste.
The discussions also emphasized the importance of academic exchange and international collaboration in supporting human resource development and further strengthening the friendly bilateral relations between Timor-Leste and Japan. Through cooperation with Gifu University and JICA, Timorese students and researchers have been given opportunities to pursue advanced studies in various academic fields, which are expected to contribute meaningfully to the future development of Timor-Leste.
Both sides also highlighted the importance of maintaining a safe, inclusive, and intellectually enriching academic environment for the younger generation. Such initiatives not only strengthen academic and professional capacities, but also deepen mutual understanding, promote cultural exchange, and foster enduring people-to-people relations between the two countries.
The Embassy further conveyed its interest in expanding cooperation in specialized fields, including opportunities for Timorese medical professionals to undertake advanced training programs in Japan, particularly in specialized healthcare services and medical research.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment between the Embassy of Timor-Leste in Japan and Gifu University to continue promoting educational collaboration, academic exchange, and the longstanding friendship between Timor-Leste and Japan.
