DILI, 31 january 2024 (TATOLI) – Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Timor-Leste, Marc Weinstock joined F-FDTL Major General Calisto dos Santos “Coliati” at the groundbreaking ceremony for construction of the F-FDTL Air Component Hangar at Baucau Airfield on wednesday, january 31, 2024.
The groundbreaking represents the United States’ commitment to assisting Timor-Leste in its efforts to modernize its military and professionalize its security forces.
The hangar, a US$1.1 million state-of-the-art facility, is designed to house two Cessna aircraft and park additional aircraft on a parking apron of 1,560 square meters.
The hangar is set to become the permanent home of the Cessna 206 aircraft donated last lune by the U.S. Government. The aircraft’s surveillance capabilities, used in tandem with Australian patrol boats that will arrive later this year, will allow Timor-Leste to defend its territorial sovereignty.
“We are here to help Timor-Leste build a maritime patrol capability and defend Timor-Leste’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” said Chargé d’Affaires Weinstock in his remarks.
Also in attendance was honored guest Major General (MG) Callahan, the commander of the Rhode Island National Guard. Since 2020, the Rhode Island National Guard has provided humanitarian assistance and capacity building to Timor-Leste, and the State Partnership Program with Rhode Island was officially signed last year on the F-FDTL’s anniversary.
MG Callahan’s visit to Timor-Leste will include a series of engagements to strengthen ties and develop opportunities for future cooperation between Rhode Island and Timor-Leste.
The United States stands shoulder to shoulder with its partners, including Timor-Leste, in creating opportunities, cultivating friendships, and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
