Díli, Jan. 19, 2026 (Lusa) - The President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, travelled to Switzerland on Monday to participate in the World Economic Forum in Davos, dedicated to the theme "Spirit of Dialogue", which will be attended by several world leaders.
"In a world often fractured by conflict and mistrust, “Spirit of Dialogue” is not just a theme, but a necessity," said José Ramos-Horta in a statement released to the press.
For the President, Timor-Leste's journey teaches that "lasting peace and prosperity are built through persistent dialogue and respect, based on a common commitment to the collective good."
"In Davos, I will carry the voice of our people, advocating for global cooperation that invests in peace, empowers entrepreneurs and protects our planet for future generations," he added.
José Ramos-Horta will participate in strategic dialogues, namely on "Restoring a spirit of dialogue in a divided world" and "Putting entrepreneurs where markets don't reach," as well as in sessions organised by Global Citizen and Forbes.
On Thursday, the Timorese President will speak at two side events, one on ways to turn the plastic pollution crisis into an opportunity to create green jobs, and another on models for ecological restoration and resilient community economies.
Confirmed participants in the forum, which will run throughout the week, include US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, six of the seven heads of state or government of the G7 (group of the world's seven largest economies), Argentine leader Javier Milei, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde.
Founded in 1971, the World Economic Forum brings together hundreds of political, economic and business leaders every year, transforming the Swiss ski resort into one of the main centres of international debate for a week.
According to the organisers, 64 heads of state and government and around 850 business leaders from around the world have already confirmed their attendance.
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