President Droupadi Murmu conferred with Timor-Leste's highest civilian honour

President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday underscored the strong and friendly ties between India and Timor-Leste, rooted in their shared values of democracy and pluralism. This statement followed her extensive discussions with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta about boosting bilateral cooperation in various areas.

This visit marks the first time an Indian president has traveled to Timor-Leste. During her stay, Murmu was honored with the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the nation's highest award, presented by President Ramos-Horta.

President Murmu's ceremonial welcome

President Murmu was greeted with a ceremonial reception and a guard of honor at the Presidential Palace in Dili.


"India and Timor Leste share warm and friendly relations based on our shared commitment to the values of democracy and pluralism. I am confident that this will further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries," she said.

Furthermore, President Murmu met with her counterpart, President Ramos-Horta and the two discussed the enhancement of the bilateral ties between India and Timor Leste.

"I had extensive discussions with President Ramos-Horta today on enhancing the bilateral cooperation between India and Timor Leste in the field of IT, digital technology, health and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, capacity building and more," President Murmu said while revealing the details of the bilateral meeting.

India and Timor-Leste's bilateral ties

The two leaders also talked about the possibility of Timor-Leste joining the International Solar Alliance.

In a special honour, President Murmu was bestowed with the highest civilian award of Timor-Leste.

"I was deeply honoured by receiving the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the country's highest honour." She added, "The honour is a reflection of the deep bond of friendship between India and Timor Leste," she said while expressing gratitude on receiving the award.

According to her office, "President Jose Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste conferred the Grand-Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the country's highest civilian award, upon President Droupadi Murmu."


The award recognizes "her achievements in public service and dedication to education, social welfare and empowerment of women."

Earlier, President Murmu arrived in Dili, marking the final stop on her three-nation visit, which included New Zealand and Fiji.

The President of India's official handle on X shared a post stating, "President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Dili, Timor-Leste on the last leg of her three-nation visit."


During her visit, Murmu will also meet with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and attend a community reception with the Indian community in Timor-Leste and Friends of India, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).