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The Covid-19 pandemic presents unprecedented challenges around the world and Timor-Leste is no exception. Despite volatile economic performance, consistent low levels of health spending, and bureaucratic fragility associated with young democratic institutions, Timor-Leste is one of the few nations that has mitigated the virus effectively. We consider the first-hand accounts of healthcare and NGO workers, community leaders, and Ministry of Health officials responding to the Covid-19 pandemic in assessing the effectiveness of 'South-South' development partnerships and co-operation. Our analysis of interview data collected during April and May show that Timor-Leste's success in responding to the pandemic is a product of the continuing efforts of genuine partnerships and international aid. We argue that despite criticism of the development effectiveness agenda following the 2011 Busan Forum, on-the-ground accounts in Timor-Leste display the value of unconditional partnerships, mutually defined goals, and development cooperation in combatting the pandemic. This research contributes to the literature on development effectiveness and is the first of its kind characterising the Timorese response to the Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]