DILI, 10 february 2026 (TATOLI) — The Chief of the General Staff of Timor-Leste National Defense Force (F-FDL), Lieutenant General Domingos Raúl “Falur Rate Laek” has been awarded the Portugal’s Grand Cross of the Medal of Military Merit in recognition of his role in strengthening defence cooperation between Timor-Leste and Portugal.
The military decoration acknowledges his contribution to enhancing military cooperation between the Portuguese Armed Forces and F-FDTL, particularly in the areas of military training, the promotion of the Portuguese language, and the development of joint exercises and operational training programs.
The Chief of the General Staff of F–FDTL arrived in Portugal on tuesday, 9 february 2026, for an official visit.
Upon his arrival, Falur Rate Laek was received by the Chief of the General Staff of the Portuguese Armed Forces, General José Nunes da Fonseca.
A bilateral meeting was held as part of the program, during which an institutional briefing on the Portuguese Armed Forces was presented. The briefing focused on Portugal’s national engagement within the framework of the Portuguese Capacity Building Mission for Timor-Leste.
The visit underscores the close historical and military ties between the two countries and reaffirms their shared commitment to deepening defense cooperation.
TATOLI
