On April 24, 2025, the University of Macau demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering academic and cultural ties between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. Eurico Manuel Chao de Sousa Martins, a national of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and a master’s student from the Department of Government and Public Administration – Faculty of Social Sciences, successfully defended his master’s report titled “The Role of Timorese Newspapers in Framing Public Opinion on Foreign Policy Issues: The Case of Timor Post.”

Eurico’s research, supervised by Professor Tak Wing Ngo, delves into the significant influence of Timorese newspapers on public opinion regarding foreign policy. His work highlights the pivotal role media plays in shaping perceptions and policy discussions in Timor-Leste, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of public opinion formation in the region, particularly in relation to Indonesia and Australia.

The oral evaluation committee, which included Associate Professor Francisco Leandro, praised Eurico’s thorough analysis and substantial contribution to the field. This event exemplifies the University of Macau’s ongoing efforts to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. By nurturing scholarly research and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges, the university continues to play a crucial role in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.

The successful defense of Eurico’s report not only marks a significant academic achievement but also reinforces the University of Macau’s position as a leading institution in promoting international academic partnerships.