DILI, 29 october 2021 (TATOLI)– Brigadier General of Timor Leste Defense Force (F-FDTL), Calisto Santos “Coliati” informed, that the Australian Government through the Embassy in Timor – Leste has decided to donate 2 new patrol ships to the Navy force of F-FDTL in 2023.
“We discussed the Maritime Authority how Australia can help and also discuss the two ships of Guardian Class Model that Australia will donate to F-FDTL in July 2023,” Calisto Santos “Coliati told reporters at the Ministry of Defense’s office, Fatuhada, Dili, today.
Coliati added that Australia’s commitment to assist F-FDTL began in 2021 since the Headquarter of FFDTL was still in the municipality of Aileu.
Coaliti confirmed that to receive the ship of Guardian Classes Model, F-FDTL through the Navy Unit has prepared 60 F-FDTL members to have completed training on electrical installation, technic ship, engine operation, ships communications, and other skills as well.
Australia has also provided training to the members of F-FDTL in the field of human resources such as military academy training, logistics, administration, and also specific training on weapons.
“On behalf of the Government of Timor – Leste and F- FDTL, I thanked the Australian Government for the support provided to Timor-Leste during this time and hope that, all bilateral cooperation must be continued better in the future,” he said.
At the same place Australian Ambassador to Timor Leste, Peter Robert said this meeting was to update the Memorandum of Understanding that had been signed with Defense Minister Filomeno Paixao a few months ago.
“Our meeting is to update the information on two new ships that will be donated by Australia in July 2023, which were previously signed a few months ago,” said Robert.
Robert added that Australia had not only donated two ships but to ensure the quality of two ships, in 2017 until now Australia has provided maintenance training on these ships and Australia wishes this cooperation must be strengthened in the future.
Journalist : Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B
