DILI, 29 september 2023 (TATOLI)—The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Indonesia, ASEAN, and Timor-Leste, Ina Lepel, met Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão this morning to emphasize Germany’s support for Timor-Leste during its accession procession to ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).
“I had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister. This is the first time for me to meet him as the new Head of Government, so it is very interesting for me to learn about the new government’s priorities and plans,” Ina Lepel explained at the Government Office this friday.
The diplomat was impressed with the ninth government’s plans to have solid finances and move forward in development for the people of Timor-Leste.
She believes that Germany will try to provide the support it can provide after the end of the bilateral cooperation program in early 2023 through the ‘Ai Ba Futuru’.
“Hopefully we can also help in terms of increasing capacity for ASEAN assessments. We have several small projects with local NGOs to help in increasing capacity for the ASEAN assessment process,” he explained.
She also explained the end of GIZ agency activities (the German Agency for International Cooperation) because it has successfully implemented the program in Timor-Leste and is currently focusing on collaboration with NGOs (non-governmental organizations).
Relations between Timor-Leste and Germany are very good. Since the UN Transitional Administration in 1999, Timor-Leste has received substantial aid (around 67 million euros) from Germany for nation-building. After achieving the restoration of independence on May 20, 2002, Timor-Leste was recognized by Germany under international law.
Reporter: Cidalia Fatima
Editor: Armandina Moniz
Translator: Camilio de Sousa
