Xanana Gusmao, prime minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, delivered a speech in HNU on April 15, 2025. With passionate and philosophical expressions, he shared his thoughts on and inspiration from the role of universities, introduced Timor-Leste's history and development, and highly praised Hunan's contributions to building a regional community with a shared future.

This was Xanana's third visit to Hunan, following his trips in 2014 and 2017.

On May 12, 2017, HNU conferred an honorary doctorate on Xanana. During his speech at HNU that day, Xanana expressed immense pride in receiving this honor. He specifically highlighted HNU's motto–"Dare to be Pioneers," advocating for the same pioneering spirit in the pursuit of peaceful development.

Other distinguished guests present included: Wang Wenli, Chinese ambassador to Timor-Leste; Tomas Cabral, minister of State Administration of Timor-Leste; Gastao Sousa, minister of Planning and Strategic Investment of Timor-Leste; Maubere Lorosae da Silva Horta, Timor-Leste ambassador to China; and, other members of the Timor-Leste delegation. Zhang Jianfei, deputy director of the Standing Committee of the Hunan Provincial People's Congress, accompanied the guests.

HNU President Duan Xianzhong presided the event, and Vice President Jiang Chao and over 200 HNU faculty and student representatives, attended.

Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Xanana delivers a speech at HNU.

A student raises questions during the event.

An international student coming from Timor-Leste poses questions during the event.