DILI, 09 july 2024 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta addressed the Angola National Police Academy, highlighting the shared struggles for independence between Angola and Timor-Leste.
Horta drew parallels between Timor-Leste’s 2002 independence and Angola’s post-1975 liberation process, praising Angola’s early solidarity with Timor-Leste’s right to self-determination.
Ramos-Horta also shared Timor-Leste’s ongoing state-building efforts, particularly in developing Timor-Leste’s police force.
He explained that Timor-Leste retained 60% of the previous police personnel and has benefited from international partnerships in police and military training, notably with Australia and Portugal.
The Head of State expressed admiration for Angola’s progress, describing it as one of the world’s most promising countries. He even suggested Angola could be a strong candidate for a permanent seat on a potentially reformed UN Security Council.
Looking to strengthen bilateral cooperation, Horta proposed sending Angolan police instructors to Dili for training programs. He argued this approach would benefit more Timorese officers than sending small groups to Angola, and expressed his intention to discuss this partnership proposal with Timor-Leste’s Minister of Interior.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
