Megawati Visits Timor Leste, to Receive Highest National Honor

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri arrived in Dili, Timor Leste, on Wednesday for an official visit aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties. The leader of the PDI-P party landed at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport and is expected to stay until July 10.

A central purpose of her visit is to receive the Grand Collar of Timor Leste, the nation's highest honor. This award recognizes Megawati's significant contributions to advancing bilateral relations and fostering reconciliation between Indonesia and Timor Leste.

Upon her arrival, Megawati was greeted by high-ranking Timorese officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Bendito dos Santos Freitas. She was also welcomed by Jose Ramos-Horta, the President of Timor Leste, and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, underscoring the importance of her visit.

Megawati is accompanied by her family, including Puti Guntur Soekarnoputri and Romy Soekarno, as well as key PDI-P figures such as Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto. The delegation's presence highlights the political significance of the visit and the party's engagement with Timor Leste.

The warm reception extended beyond the airport, with thousands of schoolchildren lining the route to her accommodation, waving Indonesian and Timorese flags. This enthusiastic display of goodwill reflects the strong and friendly relationship between the two neighboring countries.