East Timor participates in the 15th International Investment and Infrastructure Development Forum held in Macau « Government of East Timor

The Minister of Strategic Planning and Investment, Gastão Francisco de Sousa, attended the 15th International Investment and Infrastructure Development Forum (IIICF), held from June 19 to 21 at the Cotai Central in The Venetian Macao.

During the forum, Minister Gastor de Sousa attended the sub-forum on green development and sustainable infrastructure projects in Portuguese-speaking countries, discussing cooperation opportunities in Portuguese-speaking countries, financial cooperation, the advantages and experience of Chinese companies, and prospects for future cooperation.

In his remarks, the Governor stressed the strategic importance of infrastructure to Timor-Leste’s sustainable development, noting that the country is “at a critical juncture in its development journey.” He also mentioned that “our Strategic Development Plan (PED) 2011-2030 describes the roadmap to transform Timor-Leste into an upper-middle-income country by 2030,” with a focus on “infrastructure development such as social capital, economic development and catalysts for growth.”

The minister stressed that the country’s main priorities include improving transport networks, developing sustainable energy solutions, expanding access to drinking water and sanitation, investing in digital infrastructure, and promoting balanced urban and rural development. He also believed that “modern, efficient and resilient infrastructure is essential to unlocking our full potential” to “boost trade, attract investment and improve the quality of life of our people.”

Gastão de Sousa said that “the path to sustainable development is paved through collaboration, innovation and strategic investments” and expressed the country’s interest in “exploring opportunities for public-private partnerships (PPPs), joint ventures and knowledge exchange to advance the sustainable development agenda” and resilient infrastructure.

The 15th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF) was co-organized by the China International Construction Association (CHINCA) and the Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), bringing together more than 3,000 industry representatives from more than 70 countries and regions.