DILI, 07 august 2023 (TATOLI) – A delegation from Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA, led by Lori-Anne Sharp, a member of AHEDA’s Board and the Federal Secretary of the Australian Nurses and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), met with the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, to discuss priorities for working together in the future.
Sharp said biodiversity and economic growth were part of their discussion among several other priorities.
“We talked about how we can work together in the future and what part Australia can play to assist and continue the friendship and the ties that have been built,” Sharp told reporters after the meeting at the Government Palace, in Dili today.
She said it was a privilege for the delegation to meet the Prime Minister in person: “We congratulated him on the successful election: “We look forward to continuing our friendship and solidarity with Timor-Leste.”
They also touched upon the contribution of the Australian Labor Movement to Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence.
Gusmão said that without the support of the International Solidarity Movement, including the Australian Labour Movement, it would be very difficult for Timor-Leste to achieve its goal of self-determination.
“They had been supporting us since our struggle for independence. They defended our right to self-determination and we always got their back until the 1999 Referendum,” he said.
Gusmão thanked the Australian Labor Movement for its support for Timor-Leste’s independence: “I thank you. We love you.”
Mr. Gusmão said it is important to strengthen and continue the friendship that has been established between Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA and Timor-Leste.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
