OECUSSE, 30 December 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Executive Leader, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, called on the ‘Liurai’ – the customary chief of a kingdom in Timor, of Amfoan together with communities from the Amfoan administrative post in Oepoli to strengthen coordination with residents of Naktuka village and authorities in the Nítibe sub-region. His appeal aimed to promote peace and unity along the border, as discussions on resolving the Naktuka land boundary remain at the negotiation stage between the two nations at the highest level.
“Recently, there were problems between border communities. Some claimed certain issues were not true, while others in Timor-Leste asked why such incidents occurred. But often, when I come here, people say these situations are not caused by Oepoli, because we share blood ties. It is others who provoke such circumstances,” Gusmão stated during the Christmas fraternity celebration held at the Border Patrol Unit (UPF) post in Usapiba’at.
“Therefore, ladies and gentlemen, you are all here today. We must carry forward our commitment to work together in goodwill, to help one another, and to ensure a better life for our communities if we truly support each other,” the Prime Minister expressed with hope.
Border issues and negotiations
The Prime Minister underlined that while Timor-Leste will celebrate 24 years of independence in 2026, the land boundary issue—particularly in Naktuka—remains unresolved. “This is something we must understand together. We must meet and discuss to reach mutual understanding. Why? Because all other land boundaries have been resolved, except for Naktuka and Oepoli.”
He added that official negotiations on maritime boundaries had already begun in Yogyakarta in a constructive atmosphere. “In April 2026, we will continue the second round of discussions. I always ask Indonesian President Prabowo to resolve this matter. That is why your presence here today carries its own significance. I do not wish to speak at length, but the Liurai of Amfoan, a respected traditional leader, will continue to work with us, maintaining contact so that the Naktuka border issue can be resolved,” Gusmão said optimistically.
He further noted that the border in Kruz, Passabe sub-region, has already been resolved amicably between Indonesia and Timor-Leste, with communities collaborating well. “The border remains a border, but there are no restrictions on crossing to farm plantations. Communities from both sides cultivate land across the boundary, and trade continues despite national laws banning certain imports and exports.”
Family and cultural ties
Gusmão emphasized that despite national differences, the two border communities share family ties, culture, and agricultural livelihoods. “Here in Naktuka, we follow the agreement between Portugal and the Netherlands. People from one side may work here, but outsiders cannot enter illegally or bring prohibited goods. That is why I expect support from the Liurai of Amfoan and the Amfoan community. In the past, conflict and destruction divided us. Now, after 24 years, can we still not resolve this? We must agree, so that we can visit each other as neighbors and work together in the fields.”
Spirit of unity
“Because we are one family, in the spirit of tradition, in the spirit of Christmas, and in the spirit of the coming year, we must strive together to build a new life for our children who are just beginning their journey. Therefore, I thank all parents and children here. I apologize if our preparations were not perfect, but I promise that once the Naktuka land boundary is resolved, we will celebrate a grand festival together with the people of Oepoli,” Gusmão assured.
Journalist: Abílio Elo Nini
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
