DILI, 13 June 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste welcomed Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of Army Australia, and Major General Rose King, Chief of Army New Zealand, for a joint visit from 13 to 14 June 2025, aimed at strengthening defence partnership.
Upon their arrival, the two army chiefs met with Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, Chief of the General Staff of the Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL), to discuss enhancing security and defence cooperation in support of regional peace and stability.
Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek emphasized that, although Timor-Leste is a small country, it remains firmly committed to working closely with its neighbours to contribute to global peace and stability.
The two Chiefs of Army also met with senior Ministry of Defence and Falintil-Forças de Defesa de Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) members to discuss shared security priorities and longstanding partnership and cooperation, including ways to strengthen the F-FDTL.
They also met with Australian Defence Cooperation Program and New Zealand Mutual Assistance Program personnel, and visit the locations of Australian and New Zealand activities, including Metinaro Base.
Together the two Chiefs laid a wreath at the New Zealand Embassy Kiwi Stone to honour those who have served and fallen in Timor-Leste.
Lieutenant General Simon Stuart said it was an honor to visit Timor-Leste and hold discussions with Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek on strengthening future defence cooperation between Australia and Timor-Leste.
“Timor-Leste is an important security partner to both Australia and New Zealand. Our shared history and commitment to a peaceful, stable region is at the core of our growing friendship. I look forward to reconnecting with old friends,” said Lieutenant General Stuart.
“New Zealand has been a steadfast supporter of Timor-Leste since independence. This visit is another opportunity to further New Zealand and Australia’s deep partnership with the country. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Timor-Leste and Australia to ensure a secure and stable region,” said Major General King.
The visit highlights the strength of the Australian and New Zealand alliance, and their joint commitment to working with regional neighbors.
The two Chiefs were hosted throughout their visit by Timor-Leste’s Head of Social Support, F-FDTL Colonel Alberto Perreira dos Santos, known as ‘As Copas
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
