DILI, 19 november 2022 (TATOLI) – U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Tom Daley and President José Ramos-Horta closed the U.S. Mission in Timor-Leste’s year-long commemoration of the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste during a one-day informational expo and cultural program at Timor Plaza.
The expo featured beneficiaries of U.S.-sponsored programs and highlighted U.S. efforts to expand opportunities for the Timorese people in development, education, entrepreneurship, English, and other sectors.
The celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties took place today in Timor Plaza, Dili, under the theme “Friends, Partners, Opportunities”.
“Since our relationship was established 20 years ago, it has come to be defined by three words: friendship, partnership, and opportunities,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley in his remarks at the closing ceremony. “This vision has inspired our work as we strive to expand opportunities for the Timorese people. The United States is committed to working together to expand our efforts to deliver opportunities over the next 20 years and beyond.”
In a video played at the closing ceremony, the United States highlighted major accomplishments in recent years, including:
Investment of over $320 million through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to strengthen Timor-Leste’s economic growth and good governance.
The signing of the $420 million Millennium Challenge Corporation Timor-Leste Compact will strengthen water and sanitation infrastructure and secondary education.
Completion of the first phase of the joint rehabilitation of Baucau airport to support Timor-Leste’s efforts to monitor its territory, respond to natural disasters, and promote economic development.
Construction of over 100 clinics and schools throughout Timor-Leste by the U.S. Navy Seabees to improve the health and education of the Timorese people.
Contribution of over 200,000 life-saving Pfizer vaccines and more than $7.8 million in critical assistance to help Timor-Leste respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Efforts to strengthen English education and community economic development with the support of Peace Corps Volunteers, who will return to Timor-Leste in early 2023.
The celebration was attended by over 600 Timorese in U.S. education and exchange programs, including Fulbright, the USTL undergraduate scholarship, the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI), and more.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia Borges
