DARWIN, 07 february 2023 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste strengthens ties with the Northern Territory with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Adaljiza Albertina Xavier Reis Magno, and the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, Natasha Fyles, signing the Strategic Partnership Agreement to deepen trade and business ties.
The signing of the 2023-2027 agreement was intended to boost an already strong relationship between the Northern Territory and Timor-Leste.
In the Asian century, and close to the emerging economic giants, Timor-Leste is well positioned for trade and partnership with its neighbors, including Australia and Indonesia.
The agreement paves way for the implementation of the strategic framework for bilateral ties between the Northern Territory Government, and the Government of Timor-Leste.
Minister Magno said that the proximity between Timor-Leste and the Northern Territory creates a close partnership that brings benefits to the people of both countries.
“The signing of this agreement marks another milestone for both parties because many Timorese people living in Northern Territory. Therefore, it’s necessary to deepen the people-to-people ties as well,” Magno emphasized.
“The Northern Territory is committed to continuing to support Timor-Leste in various areas, including business and trade, tourism, agriculture, and oil and minerals. This agreement also strengthens our cooperation in the Pacific Australia Labor Mobility (PALM),” Magno said.
It is said that the Northern Territory and Timor-Leste will collaborate to identify further strategic priorities.
“I look forward to working together and expanding our bilateral relationship, and creating stronger ties in our region,” said Minister Fyles.
Minister for Northern Australia and Trade, Nicole Manison revealed that in 2022, the value of exports to Timor-Leste from the Northern Territory was $16 million: “I look forward to this growth in the future.”
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
