Cross-Border Payments: Bank Indonesia and Timor-Leste’s central bank (BCTL) signed an MoU to deepen payment and settlement cooperation, including exploring cross-border QRIS links between the two countries. Regional Digital Finance: BI also reported a surge in inbound cross-border QR payments, showing how QR connectivity is boosting tourism and small-business spending across the region. UN Diplomacy: Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta renewed support for India’s bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat, praising India’s democratic record and role in working with developing countries. Elections Tech & Democracy: Timor-Leste’s Minister Agio Pereira met Australia’s Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope to discuss election organisation and new challenges from disinformation, social media, and AI. Energy Infrastructure: Fugro won more offshore survey work for Timor-Leste’s Greater Sunrise TLNG and Bayu-Undan pipeline plans, with geotechnical and metocean studies set to start in early 2027. Work Opportunities: Australia confirmed Timor-Leste is eligible for its Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, opening legal work placement pathways. Health Gains: A WHO update highlighted Timor-Leste’s validation for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem.