DILI, 26 september 2022 (TATOLI)— The President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta held a bilateral meeting with New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern on saturday 924/09/22) in New York, after attending the 77th United Nations General Assembly.
The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, Adaljiza Magno, and the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to the United States, Carlito Nunes.
Horta said, in a meeting with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, they discussed international issues, in particular the war between Russia and Ukraine which has had a huge impact on the world including Timor-Leste.
“We mostly talk about some international issues. everyone is talking about big problems in Ukraine, because the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has had a huge impact on the world including us, with this problem and its sanctions, all international trade has been affected, resulting in inflation in all prices of goods globally. In addition, we also talk about what is happening in Myanmar,” Horta said in a statement.
Horta recognized relations between Timor-Leste and New Zealand as a national priority, important as Timor-Leste’s relations with Australia, Indonesia, and other countries.
“So I admit that bilateral relations with New Zealand are a national priority, as important as our relationship with Australia, our relationship with Indonesia, and other countries such as Singapore. But seeing the possibility of improving relations between the two countries, therefore I have spoken to the Prime Minister of New Zealand,” Horta said.
Although New Zealand is a small country and not a close neighbor to Timor-Leste, Horta said New Zealand had provided more support for Timor-Leste since Timor-Leste fought for Independence, saying in 1999 New Zealand and other countries had done negotiations and mediation to send International Troops to Timor-Leste.
While in the 2006 crisis, New Zealand continued to send troops to Timor-Leste to support security in the country.
Journalista : Nelson Sousa
Editor : Cancio Ximenes/Nelia B.
Translation: Camilo de Sousa
