The Government of Timor-Leste and the Government of Australia's Northern Territory sign a Strategic Partnership Agreement
The Government of Timor-Leste, represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Adaljiza Magno, and the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory (NT) Government of Australia, Natasha Fyles, signed yesterday, February 7th a Strategic Partnership agreement. After they arrived in Darwin, the ceremony occurred at the Parliament House. It was witnessed by Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak and Australian Minister for Trade Affairs Paul Kirby. The signing of this strategic partnership agreement takes place as part of the Prime Minister's official visit to Australia.
Minister Adaljiza Magno stated that this agreement is significant for Timor-Leste and the Government of the Northern Territory in strategic sectors such as trade, business, agriculture, tourism, petroleum and minerals, among other areas.
"This agreement is essential for Timor-Leste and the Government of the Northern Territory because the state of NT brings together many Timorese who have been living here since 1975. Many came before the Restoration of Independence of Timor-Leste, and others came afterwards. For this reason, because there is a strong connection between the people and the communities, this agreement is crucial for Timor-Leste and the Northern Territory. The Government of the Northern Territory is committed to supporting Timor-Leste in various sectors such as tourism, agriculture, petroleum and minerals. In addition, and as a concrete example, they manage their crocodiles. We know that Darwin is a city or state that manages crocodiles well. There are several other sectors, like agriculture, where we can also cooperate well. In the field of tourism as well. Besides visiting Bali, Australians can also visit Timor-Leste. This is a good way for us to help each other", explained MNEC Adaljiza Magno.
This agreement continues with another agreement signed in 2019 and expired in 2022. This new agreement will be valid until 2026.
"In addition, this Strategic Partnership Agreement will act as an extension for us to manage the Palm Scheme. The Palm Scheme is, as you know, an agreement between the Australian and Timor-Leste governments to send workers from Timor-Leste to work in Australia. Therefore, taking advantage of the official visit of Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak, the Minister of the Northern Territory of Australia and I signed this Strategic Partnership Agreement, with the testimony of His Excellency the Prime Minister and the Minister of Trade Affairs of Australia. This agreement is an important step in strengthening the relationship between the Northern Territory and Timor-Leste", pointed out the Minister.
The Head of Government, accompanied by his delegation, travelled today from the City of Darwin in the Northern Territory to Canberra to meet with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese.
