24 July 2015 - Before formally ending her tour of duty, Philippine Ambassador to Timor-Leste María Aileen H. Bugarín made a farewell call on the following senior-ranking Timorese officials last July 15 and 16. 

·         President Taur Matan Ruak;

·         Prime Minister Rui Maria de Araújo; and

·         Foreign Minister Hernani F. Coêlho da Silva

During the meetings, Ambassador Bugarín expressed her deep gratitude to the Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Timorese people for the support and cooperation they have given to her and the Embassy during her term.

The Ambassador also took the opportunity to discuss and exchange views with the Timorese officials on bilateral and regional issues that are of mutual interest to both the Philippines and Timor-Leste. She also informed the officials on bilateral projects and initiatives that are still in the pipeline that both sides may continue to pursue under the leadership of Ambassador-Designate Evelyn D. Austria-Garcia.

In response, President Matan Ruak, Prime Minister Araújo and Foreign Minister Coêlho recognized the positive developments in the two countries’ bilateral relations during the tenure of Ambassador Bugarín. END