DILI, 01 september 2022 (TATOLI) – Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Pedro dos Reis held a short meeting with Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MoAF) where both ministers talked about strengthening cooperation in agriculture and fisheries to ensure sustainable fisheries in the country.
In his remarks, Minister Reis expressed his deep appreciation for the short visit of Minister Wong: It’s an honor and privilege for MoAF to host this short visit and I am sure that this visit will strengthen the relationship between Timor-Leste and Australia.”
Reis thanked the government of Australia for its generosity in supporting Timor-Leste’s development, particularly in the agricultural and fisheries sector. “
Reis emphasized that the development of the agriculture and fisheries sector in Timor-Leste was counted also on the support given by the government of Australia.
‘We are well aware that fish can provide nutrition and protein that are important for the early phase of human development. To achieve this, the support of the Australian Government through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), implemented by World Fish and MoAF has been the strategic option to assist the government of Timor-Leste in combating malnutrition,” he said.
At the same place, Minister Wong said Timor-Leste and Australia share a history, a region, and a future.
“I want to say that the important part of that future is working with you on fisheries, and agriculture, and increasing your access to sustainably produced fish for the people of Timor-Leste,” Wong said.
Minister Wong praised the work of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) in supporting the World Fish in Timor-Leste to improve food security in the country.
“We are very pleased for the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). It’s long-term support for the World Fish in Timor-Leste, up to 2021, to improve food security, and livelihoods, and to improve nutrition in coastal communities,” she said.
Wong stressed that food security is critical for economic security, national development, and resilience.
“We are honored and pleased to be able to work with you. Thank you very much for hosting me here today. And thank you very much for your warm welcome and I appreciate it,” said Wong.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
