Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

Díli, June 4, 2013

Statement by Government of Timor-Leste

Given the recent media regarding the pending arbitration between Timor-Leste and Australia, the Government of Timor-Leste reaffirms to the Government and People of Australia the overarching relationship between the two countries is and will continue to be one of deep unity, friendship and mutual respect. Both Timor-Leste and Australia are bonded by the shared values founded on the promotion and protection of democracy; a relationship that is steadfast and mature.

Whatever challenges in different sectors that might arise, and they will at varying times by nature of the close social, economic and geographic ties, the relationship can only be strengthened by any process of mutual accountability or joint evaluation. Above all, the commonalities between countries in sharing national and regional interests; and to protect and preserve the democratic way of life; will always be primary to any periphery or sectoral challenge.

While the relationship between the two nations is continually evolving, the basic and fundamental pursuit for regional peace, social harmony and prosperity will always bind the two countries. Most importantly, together Australia and Timor-Leste have always – first and foremost – joined to defend the ideas, freedoms and values that democracy yields.

Each and every country can count strengths and weaknesses; however, there is no doubt that what can be counted as one of Australia’s greatest strength is the everyday Australian; so many of whom have given their hearts, time and commitment to Timor-Leste’s journey from the struggle for independence to new found democracy. This stands above any matter and will always be the roots that bind both Peoples in friendship.