Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of Timor-Leste’s Proclamation of Independence
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Bangladesh celebrated the 50th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s Proclamation of Independence with a grand reception held on 28 November 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Sheraton, Dhaka.
The event, hosted by Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed, Honorary Consul of Timor-Leste to Bangladesh, brought together diplomats, government officials, senior military officers, academicians, business leaders, and well-wishers from both nations—reflecting the warm and longstanding ties between Bangladesh and Timor-Leste.
Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, and Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, attended as the chief guest.
In his speech, Dr. Nazrul highlighted the historic struggle and resilience of the Timorese people and lauded the country’s democratic progress and expanding engagement in South Asia.
Two senior officials from the Government of Timor-Leste—Ambassador Jorge Camoes, Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, and Mr. Emanuel Tilman, Director at the same ministry—were also present.
They expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s longstanding support, particularly in areas such as peacekeeping, governance, capacity-building, and diplomatic cooperation.
In his welcome remarks, Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed—also Chairman of Envoy Legacy and Sheltech Group—emphasized the significance of the golden jubilee and stressed the potential for deeper economic and diplomatic collaboration between the two countries.
He also highlighted Timor-Leste’s historic achievement of becoming the 11th member state of ASEAN in October 2025, noting that the milestone creates new opportunities for enhanced regional and bilateral cooperation.
The programme concluded with cultural performances and networking sessions, celebrating the enduring friendship and shared aspirations of Bangladesh and Timor-Leste.