Collaboration Between Timor-Leste and IPMA in Blue Economy Research
The collaboration between Timor-Leste and the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) marks a significant step forward in advancing scientific research on the blue economy. This initiative was sparked during the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) held in Nice, France, in June 2025, where Timor-Leste’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Economic Affairs, Tourism, and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, met with José Guerreiro, President of IPMA’s Board of Directors.
IPMA, a state laboratory in Portugal, is renowned for promoting and coordinating scientific research, technological development, and innovation in marine and atmospheric sciences. Timor-Leste aims to leverage IPMA’s expertise to deepen its understanding of marine resources and biodiversity, particularly in ecologically rich areas such as Ataúro Island and the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which encompass both terrestrial and marine protected zones.
The partnership is not limited to scientific research alone; it also includes climate assessment and monitoring to mitigate the impacts of natural phenomena and climate change. Timor-Leste intends to strengthen its national institutions, including the National Climate Change Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture’s marine spatial planning and water resource management departments, through this cooperation.
José Guerreiro emphasized IPMA’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste’s development by sharing knowledge and providing specialized training in fields such as meteorology, aquaculture, fisheries, and marine environmental protection. This collaboration represents a promising foundation for sustainable economic growth rooted in the responsible use of marine resources, aligning with the principles of the blue economy.
Scope and Goals of the Scientific Research Partnership
The scientific research partnership between Timor-Leste and the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) aims to advance the sustainable development of the blue economy through collaborative research and innovation.
The scope of this partnership encompasses a broad range of scientific activities focused on the sustainable use and management of marine and coastal resources. Key areas include joint marine biodiversity research, particularly in ecologically significant zones such as Ataúro Island and the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which are protected terrestrial and marine areas. The collaboration also targets climate assessment and monitoring to better understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change and natural phenomena on Timor-Leste’s marine ecosystems.
Beyond research, the partnership seeks to strengthen national institutions responsible for climate change, spatial planning, and aquatic resource management, such as the National Climate Change Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture’s marine resource departments. Emphasis is placed on investing in meteorological and seismological technologies to enhance environmental monitoring capabilities.
IPMA brings expertise in meteorology, aquaculture, fisheries, marine environmental protection, and blue economy development, offering specialized training and technical support. This partnership is designed not only to build scientific knowledge but also to foster innovation and capacity building, ultimately supporting Timor-Leste’s sustainable economic growth while preserving its rich marine biodiversity for future generations.