Public Finance Appointments: Timor-Leste’s Government swore in three new Permanent Secretaries to key ministries—David Teika Dennis (Finance and Treasury), Trevor Unusu (Police, National Security and Correctional Services), and Bunyan Sivoro (Culture and Tourism, reappointed)—with Acting Governor-General Sir Albert Rocky Palmer urging stronger fiscal discipline, transparency, and delivery on national development priorities. AI for State-Building: A Government Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence is set for Aug 24 at the Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão Auditorium in Dili, under the “Science for Development 2026” umbrella, aiming to shape responsible AI governance to modernise public services and support national development. Diplomacy & Development Links: Bhutan’s Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck visited Dili for meetings with Timor-Leste officials and participation in the Science for Development Summit 2026, reinforcing bilateral ties and dialogue on leadership and public service. Health & Regional Lessons: Asia-Pacific malaria elimination remains “within reach,” with Timor-Leste cited as a recent example of successful elimination, as regional leaders push for sustained action. Agriculture & Food Systems: Timor-Leste is highlighted alongside regional efforts to strengthen agrifood systems and resilience, reflecting a broader push toward better production, nutrition, environment, and livelihoods.