Representing the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the Republic of Korea, Mr. Hugo Immanuel Garcia, First Secretary, accompanied by Ms. Octavia Soares, Justice Attaché, attended the Opening Ceremony of the Seoul Defense Dialogue (SDD) 2026, held in Seoul on 8 September 2026.

Convened under the theme “Toward New Coexistence in an Era of Turmoil,” the Seoul Defense Dialogue 2026 brought together defense ministers, senior government officials, military leaders, diplomats, representatives of international organizations, and security experts to deliberate on pressing regional and global security challenges.

In his official message to the Dialogue, H.E. President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the imperative of building a stable and peaceful international order, noting that sustainable prosperity can only be achieved through peace, cooperation, and coexistence.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea likewise highlighted the pivotal importance of practical diplomacy, trust, dialogue, and international cooperation in addressing today’s interconnected security challenges and advancing peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity.

The 2026 Dialogue addressed key strategic priorities, including:

• International stability and the evolution of alliances and partnerships;
• Defense-industrial cooperation and global supply-chain resilience;
• Peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula; and
• Cooperative responses to emerging security challenges.

Timor-Leste’s participation reflects its continued commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, peace, security, and international cooperation, as well as its interest in strengthening partnerships and contributing to regional and global peace and stability.

The Embassy of Timor-Leste in Seoul remains dedicated to strengthening the close friendship and cooperation between Timor-Leste and the Republic of Korea through constructive engagement in regional and international forums.