On August 9, 2023, Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong met with Ambassador of Timor-Leste to China Abrao Dos Santos.

Nong Rong extended his congratulations to Timor-Leste's new government on its successful implementation of policy plans and introduced his delegation's visit to Timor-Leste recently and his takeaways from it. He expressed that China values the time-honored friendship between the two countries and is willing to work with Timor-Leste to plan and prepare for high-level exchanges in the next stage, actively promote practical cooperation in various fields and elevate bilateral relations. China supports Timor-Leste's entry into ASEAN and is willing to enhance regional and multilateral coordination and cooperation with Timor-Leste to jointly safeguard the interests of developing countries.

Santos congratulated Nong Rong on his fruitful visit to Timor-Leste shortly after the establishment of the country's new government. He said that China is the first country to establish diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste after Timor-Leste restored its independence and has long supported Timor-Leste's development and revitalization. Timor-Leste attaches great importance to its relations with China and appreciates China's development achievements. Timor-Leste looks forward to further deepening cooperation with China in infrastructure, economy, trade, education and other fields, proactively participating in China-ASEAN cooperation, strengthening coordination on international and regional affairs, and constantly elevating bilateral relations to a new height.