Chinese Ambassador to Timor-Leste Xiao Jianguo says the size of the market in his home country and the potential of the economy there mean opportunities for Timor-Leste to do more business and build up its own economy.

In an article published in the Timor Post on Friday, Mr Xiao says Sino-Timorese economic engagement has grown steadily, and that Timor-Leste is an important element of the Chinese-led Belt and Road initiative.

“The comprehensive and cooperative partnership between our two countries will be further developed,” he says.

China offered Timor-Leste free of charge two booths at the China International Import Expo held in Shanghai this month, and 14 representatives of nine Timorese enterprises attended the event to show off Timorese products and Timorese attractions for tourists, Mr Xiao says.