Timor-Leste has significant oil and gas resources. How does it balance energy development with sustainability, and where can India contribute?

Timor-Leste is using its Petroleum Fund carefully to ensure long-term fiscal stability while diversifying into non-oil sectors. Priority areas for Timor-Leste include sustainable agriculture, fisheries, tourism, climate-resilient infrastructure, and skills development.

India is already engaged in Timor-Leste through projects like Enhancing Food and Nutrition Security (IBSA initiative) and bamboo skills programmes. Going forward, India can further assist by supporting responsible energy development, renewable projects, environmental protection, training, and strengthening local supply chains.
This balance ensures that energy wealth translates into sustainable prosperity while meeting climate commitments.

Education and human resource development are key for young nations. How do you see India supporting Timor-Leste in this area?

India has been a consistent partner in building Timor-Leste’s human capital. Indian scholarships, ITEC/ICCR (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme/Indian Council for Cultural Relations) training, and SSIFS (Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service) diplomat training (2023) have already benefited Timorese officials and students. One Timorese diplomat recently attended the 3rd Global South Young Diplomats Forum in New Delhi. In March 2026, the SSIFS has offered a professional course for 15 Timorese drawn from various ministries/departments of our government.

Cooperation between India and Timor-Leste also extends to health (ambulances, MoU), and ICT-in-education pilots. Timor-Leste is grateful for these initiatives and sees opportunities to expand partnerships in vocational training, higher education, and professional exchanges.

What role do digital technology and innovation play in Timor-Leste’s growth, and how can India’s expertise help?

Digital transformation is essential for Timor-Leste’s leapfrogging into the future. We are exploring a Centre of Excellence in IT and piloting Digital Public Infrastructure (MOSIP for digital ID and potential UPI-style payments). India’s platforms and expertise in scalable, inclusive technology are directly relevant.

Opportunities also exist in e-governance, fintech, and digital health, where India’s successful models can inspire Timor-Leste’s journey.