“The opening of Jack’s of Timor boosts local economy, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to the overall development of local economy,” Ramos-Horta said on Facebook.

“Congratulations the Jape Family, Mr Dilip Khatri, Managing Director of Jack's Department Store.”

People flocked to the store from across the city, eager to take advantage of some its promotional deals, in an opening event featuring a store blessing and local music.

The Fijian retail giant, which trades as Jack’s Retail ltd, has over 50 stores in Fiji and since opening into Papua New Guinea market in 2015 has expanded to six outlets there.

The new department store at Timor-Plaza, stocking apparel and clothing, is the retail chain’s first development in Timor-Leste.