Timor-Leste and the European Union sets out joint priority areas for cooperation
Timor-Leste and the European Union (EU) unveiled on the 3 February 2022 priorities for a new programme of EU/Timor-Leste cooperation. The EU will provide funding amounting to EUR 55 million for the period until 2024 to support a range of intiatives for the development of Timor-Leste and to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.
The EU Multiannual Indicative Programme for Timor-Leste for 2021-27 was officially launched by H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Mrs. Adaljiza A.X.R. Magno and H.E. Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Timor-Leste, Mr. Andrew Jacobs.
With this new strategic document, the EU commits to provide support for the priorities defined in consultation with the Timor-Leste authorities (https://ec.europa.eu/international-partnerships/system/files/mip-2021-c2021-9071-timor-leste-annex_en.pdf). Other key stakeholders were consulted, in particular Civil Society Organisations, including women and youth organisations, local authorities, representatives from the private sector, the UN and other development partners of Timor-Leste.
The new programme has two main priorities: Priority 1 - Green and sustainable economic recovery and development; Priority 2 – Good governance for sustainable development. For the first phase, from 2021 - 2024, the EU will dedicate a contribution of EUR 55 million (approximately USD 61 million). The financial allocation for 2025-2027 will be determined following a mid-term review in 2024.
Ambassador Andrew Jacobs said at the launch: “The European Union has a long standing partnership with Timor-Leste, based on the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Today, we are marking a step in our cooperation, by committing ourselves to long-term support for green and sustainable economic recovery and development (a “Green Deal”) and for good governance for sustainable development. I am particularly pleased that we intensify support to Timor-Leste in the diversification of the economy, and in its efforts at regional economic integration, including preparations for possible ASEAN accession.”
The Minister Mrs. Adaljiza A.X.R. Magno stated: “I acknowledge that the European Union programs within the framework of the new partnership of the European Union will complement the government's efforts for the well being of the people of Timor-Leste. I urge my fellow government members of the relevant sectors to seize the opportunity and carry out the implementation of the government's plan to serve our people. And, I congratulate the European Union as the EU was the first development partner in Timor-Leste that is at the forefront of supporting Timor-Leste and implementing the principles of “Country Own, Country Lead and Use Country System”. For this, I keep holding the annual political dialogue and regular public policy dialogues to be continued as the most valuable instruments to strengthen and maintain our cooperation”
The adoption of the Multiannual Indicative Programme is an important step in reinforcing the EU’s cooperation with Timor-Leste. It will enable the EU and Timor-Leste to continue working together on programmes and projects that are built on shared objectives, principles and values. It comes at a time when the EU is starting to implement a new strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
