On November 21, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received the President of the Democratic Republic of East Timor, Mr. José Manuel Ramos-Horta, in a private audience at the Vatican Apostolic Palace.
Following his meeting with the Holy Father, President Ramos-Horta met with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
A Bond of Faith and Nation-Building
According to a statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the discussions at the Secretariat of State were “cordial,” a testament to the deep and enduring relationship between the Holy See and Asia’s most Catholic nation.
The parties highlighted the “good relations between the Holy See and East Timor,” specifically noting the “contribution of the Catholic Church to Timorese society.” The Church has long been a pillar of the nation, playing a pivotal role in education, social welfare, and the country’s historical struggle for independence.
The leaders also addressed current domestic priorities, focusing on the country’s economic and social development as it continues to strengthen its democratic institutions.
Regional Integration: The ASEAN Milestone
A key focus of the conversation was East Timor’s expanding role in international affairs. The Holy See noted an “exchange of views on the regional situation,” with particular attention paid to East Timor’s recent accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
This accession marks a historic milestone, signaling the full integration of East Timor into the Southeast Asian political and economic community, a goal the nation has pursued since its independence.
A Legacy of Resilience and Papal Closeness
The relationship between Rome and Dili is rooted in a history of shared resilience. During the Indonesian occupation (1975–1999), the Catholic Church served as a sanctuary for the Timorese people and a courageous voice for human rights. It was during this period that the Catholic population surged, cementing the faith as a core component of the national identity.
This unique bond was powerfully reaffirmed last year during the Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to Dili in September 2024. In a historic display of devotion, Pope Francis presided over a Mass at the Tasi Tolu esplanade attended by an estimated 600,000 faithful, representing nearly half of the country’s entire population.
That visit, and today’s audience with Pope Leo XIV, underscore the Vatican’s enduring support for East Timor as it navigates its new chapter of regional leadership and development.
About the Author
Kasmir Nema, an SVD missionary based in the Vatican, contributes regularly to RVA and other Catholic platforms and magazines.
