Dili. August 18, 2025 – The President of the Republic and Nobel Peace Laureate, H.E. José Ramos-Horta, has officially sworn in Ms. Maria Terezinha da Silva Viegas as the Ambassador-Designate of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Japan. The inauguration ceremony took place at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili.
Ms. Maria Terezinha Viegas succeeds H.E. Ilídio Ximenes da Costa, who concluded his diplomatic tenure in Tokyo in June 2025. Her appointment marks a strategic move to further elevate the longstanding bilateral relations and development partnership between Timor-Leste and Japan.
A Mandate for Strategic Partnership
During the ceremony, President Ramos-Horta emphasized the importance of this mission in securing national interests and fostering economic growth through Japanese cooperation. As Ambassador-Designate, Ms. Viegas is tasked with overseeing key strategic sectors, including:
Maritime & Industrial Investment: Facilitating continued collaboration with Tsuneishi Shipbuilding and other major Japanese industrial partners.
Energy Sector Cooperation: Strengthening ties with energy stakeholders, including INPEX, to support Timor-Leste’s energy security and development.
Development & Health: Monitoring ongoing Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects, such as the expansion of the Guido Valadares National Hospital (HNGV).
ASEAN Integration: Securing Japan’s technical and political support as Timor-Leste moves toward full membership in ASEAN.
Distinguished Leadership Background
Ms. Maria Terezinha Viegas brings extensive high-level experience to this diplomatic role. Her previous leadership positions include:
Vice-President of the National Parliament.
Secretary of State for Equality.
Member of the National Parliament and active participant in international parliamentary forums (AP-CPLP).
Diplomatic Protocol
Following her swearing-in in Dili, the Ambassador-Designate is expected to travel to Tokyo to begin her mission. According to diplomatic protocol, she will officially assume her full duties upon the presentation of her Letters of Credence to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan at the Imperial Palace.
The Embassy of Timor-Leste in Tokyo remains committed to ensuring a seamless transition and continues to serve as a vital bridge for Timorese citizens in Japan and the enduring friendship between the two nations.
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