Intimate Moment Between Megawati and Ramos-Horta at Teuku Umar, Peek into Their Discussion Here!

Jakarta – Fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia Megawati Soekarnoputri received a visit from Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta at her residence on Jalan Teuku Umar, Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Monday afternoon. The meeting lasted more than two and a half hours and was held in private. Ramos-Horta’s arrival was welcomed by several PDI Perjuangan elites. General Secretary Hasto Kristiyanto led the reception, accompanied by party figures such as Ahmad Basarah, Yasonna Laoly, Ronny Talapessy, and Andi Widjajanto. “Come, please sit down,” Megawati greeted warmly, beginning the lengthy dialogue that only concluded towards the evening, as quoted by VIVA on Monday, 23 March 2026. A warm atmosphere prevailed as Megawati personally welcomed Ramos-Horta from her study. The two then engaged in a long dialogue lasting around 150 minutes until nearing evening. Although held privately, the discussion reportedly covered strategic issues as well as reflections on the historical relationship between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. As a closing to the meeting, the two leaders exchanged souvenirs. Megawati presented traditional Indonesian batik fabric and her book titled “Spirit of Humanity”, which reflects her views on humanitarian values in politics. Meanwhile, Ramos-Horta handed over a handmade craft bag and Timor-Leste’s characteristic Arabica coffee, representing his country’s cultural identity and economic potential. This meeting is a continuation of communications that previously took place in February 2026 in Abu Dhabi, as part of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026. Their relationship has long been known to be close, transcending formal diplomatic ties. For Ramos-Horta, Megawati holds significant meaning in the journey of relations between the two countries. Megawati’s presence at the commemoration of Timor-Leste’s restoration of independence in 2002 is regarded as one of the important moments that strengthened ties following the tensions from the 1999 referendum. In a previous separate opportunity, Ramos-Horta had also invited Megawati to visit Dili to receive the country’s highest honour, the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, as appreciation for her contributions in promoting peace. The meeting in Menteng concluded with a joint photo session, marking the end of the visit that reflects the close and enduring relationship between Indonesia and Timor-Leste.