Chinese President Xi Jinping and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão jointly announced, on the 23rd of September, the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Enhancing bilateral ties is a practical necessity for the two countries to advance their cooperation and a shared expectation of the two peoples, Xi said.

China and Timor-Leste should continue to promote Belt and Road cooperation and enhance cooperation efforts in four key areas, including industry revitalization, infrastructure development, food self-sufficiency and livelihood improvement, said Xi, adding that China supports Timor-Leste in better integration into regional development.

Xanana Gusmão welcomed Chinese companies to invest in Timor-Leste and help the country in its development, expressing the hope of working with China to introduce bilateral ties in the new phase of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

(Source: Portugal Digital)