Vietnamese ninth-grader invited to visit Timor-Leste by President José Ramos-Horta
VOV.VN - Thai Duy Anh, a ninth-grade student at the Asian International School in Ho Chi Minh City, will visit Timor-Leste from March 30 to April 2, 2026 at the official invitation of the Office of the President of Timor-Leste.
During the visit, he will deliver a keynote speech at the National University of Timor Lorosa'e (UNTL) on March 31 on the role of Asian youth voices in global dialogues, alongside an overview of Vietnam’s history, development and modern economy.
He will also hold discussions with students, lecturers and researchers and join exchanges on youth journalism, international relations and regional cooperation at another university.
Duy Anh will also attend a roundtable discussion at the Office of the President, with participants including students, former members of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament and representatives of state agencies, focusing on youth diplomacy, peacebuilding and Vietnam’s experience.
According to Timor-Leste Ambassador to Vietnam João Pereira, Duy Anh is a talented young student with experience in journalism and diplomatic activities.
He said the embassy seeks to create opportunities for young people like Duy Anh to visit Timor-Leste, share experience and inspire local youth, contributing to people-to-people diplomacy between the two countries.
The Office of the President will cover all travel expenses for Duy Anh and one accompanying parent, including round-trip airfare, accommodation and local transport.
In 2025, President José Ramos-Horta expressed his surprise at Duy Anh, particularly his book project on the Palestine-Israel conflict and proposals aimed at promoting peace.
Duy Anh said he is aware of the responsibility that comes with the honour and hopes to express the aspirations of Vietnamese youth on the international stage while contributing to stronger ties between Vietnam and Timor-Leste. He has also been invited to a dinner at the President’s residence.
Duy Anh’s classmates and teachers at the Asian International School expressed pride upon learning of his upcoming trip to Timor-Leste. His homeroom teacher, Hoang Phuong, encouraged him to stay confident, remain true to himself and keep his composure when representing Vietnam abroad, and to see this as a valuable opportunity to learn and grow.