Timor-Leste and China held the second meeting of the Joint Committee on Bilateral Trade and Economic Co-operation in Dili a few days ago, with the aim of strengthening trade and investment. The meeting was co-chaired by Timor-Leste's vice-minister of foreign affairs and cooperation, Jesuína Maria Ferreira Gomes, and by China's vice-minister of commerce, Yan Dong.

The Timorese delegation presented proposals in five priority areas: capacity building and technology transfer, support for infrastructure development, export facilitation, project financing, and cooperation in culture and tourism. The proposals aim to support economic diversification and the growth of the private sector.

The Chinese delegation proposed expanding access for Timorese products to the Chinese market. Possibilities discussed included the use of applicable preferential tariff arrangements, the participation of Timorese companies in trade fairs, the development of digital trade and joint economic studies.

The two sides also discussed improving the business and investment environment in Timor-Leste, including work visas and procedures related to project implementation, pricing and payments, in compliance with Timorese legislation.

The officials called for regular dialogue and greater institutional coordination to turn the proposals into concrete initiatives. They also reaffirmed their commitment to consolidating the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and promoting mutually beneficial economic co-operation.

(Source: Tatoli, 21 October)