DILI, 19 June 2026 (TATOLI) — The Government has approved the ratification of a defence cooperation agreement with New Zealand aimed at strengthening bilateral military ties and enhancing the institutional capacity of the Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL).
The agreement, signed on June 11 by Defence Minister Donaciano Costa Gomes and New Zealand Defence Minister Chris Penk, establishes a framework for long-term cooperation between the two countries in the defence sector.
Under the agreement, cooperation will focus on the development of the armed forces, particularly in education, professional training and other priority areas identified to strengthen the operational and institutional capabilities of FALINTIL–Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL).
“With this ratification, the ties of cooperation between Timor-Leste and New Zealand in the defence sector are strengthened, establishing the conditions for the development of joint initiatives between the institutions of the two countries and for the strengthening of national capabilities in this area,” read a statement.
TATOLI
