National Budget Talks: Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão has submitted the first amendment proposal to the 2026 General State Budget in the National Parliament, launching debate on a supplementary budget aimed at protecting Timor-Leste from shocks tied to global energy market instability, including a proposed US$174.3 million national strategic fuel reserve. Government Oversight: An Extraordinary Council of Ministers meeting on May 27 reviewed 2026 budget execution, reporting about 30% implementation as of May 26 (around US$736 million spent out of US$2.445 billion including social security), with procurement and capacity to deliver programmes flagged as key challenges. Youth & Economic Cooperation: Timor-Leste hosted a regional forum focused on youth entrepreneurship and economic cooperation, spotlighting partnerships for jobs and growth. Peacekeeping Reminder: The UN marked Peacekeepers’ Day by stressing that demand for peacekeeping is rising amid global conflict, and called for sustained political and financial support. ASEAN & Tourism Infrastructure: Timor-Leste broke ground on a new International Convention Centre in Dili, designed to boost tourism and events capacity ahead of the 2029 ASEAN Chairmanship. Regional Diplomacy: President José Ramos-Horta addressed academics on preparing for globalization and free trade, while also visited ETO Tower and discussed World Cup broadcasting plans for Timor-Leste.