DILI, 30 April 2025 (TATOLI) – Commissioner General of the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL), Henrique da Costa, accompanied by Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Roberto Soares, met on Wednesday with the Commander General of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), Agus Subianto, at TNI Headquarters in Jakarta to strengthen the commitment of the two countries to promoting dialogue and maintaining peace along the disputed border between the two countries.
During the meeting, Ambassador Soares expressed Timor-Leste’s appreciation for the good relations between Timor-Leste and Indonesia’s defense and security institutions, as well as for the technical training programs provided by Indonesia to the F-FDTL and PNTL through LEMHANAS-RI, along with other military and security trainings and joint exercises.
Soares said Timor-Leste and Indonesia continue to negotiate to resolve land borders in accordance with Uti possidetis juris and are committed to always maintaining the spirit of good neighborly relations.
The Ambassador conveyed Timor-Leste’s concern about the serious threat posed by a group of Indonesian citizens from Oepoli-Kupang to good neighborly relations, particularly the stability of the Naktuka area. He therefore requested that the TNI Commander instruct DANREM and other relevant officers to assist in maintaining peace and to refrain from actions that could instigate or escalate unnecessary conflicts at the border.
Ambassador Soares also emphasized that Timor-Leste fully supports strong relations between the high-level leaders of the two countries and remains committed to resolving sovereignty issues in a spirit of good neighborly relations, through peaceful means and in accordance with international law.
General TNI Agus Subianto, appreciated the good spirit and friendship of Timor-Leste and will carefully consider the issue (border dispute) and instruct DANREM and related officials to maintain stability, promote dialogue and friendship, safeguard peace and harmony on the border,” read a statement released today. General Agus also conveyed his personal greetings and respect to Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.
Meanwhile, Commissioner General Herique da Costa also expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Commander for the good cooperation between the UPF and SATGASPAMTAS RI-RDTL.
TATOLI
