Timor-Leste, Australia strengthen maritime security cooperation
DÍLI, 20 October 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste and Australia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maritime security cooperation, with a focus on protecting maritime borders, combating illegal fishing and tackling transnational crime.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting on Tuesday at the Government Palace in Dili between Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and Australian Maritime Border Command Commander Rear Admiral Brett Sonter. Australian Ambassador to Timor-Leste Caitlin Wilson also attended the meeting.
The two sides reviewed the progress of their partnership established in 2025 and discussed priority areas for further cooperation, particularly efforts to prevent illegal activities at sea and protect marine resources.
Sonter thanked the Timorese government, particularly Gusmão, for the opportunity to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the two countries.
He said it was a great honour and privilege to return to Dili, describing Timor-Leste as a strong Australian partner in combating illegal activities and transnational crime.
Sonter said both countries shared an interest in securing their maritime borders and tackling illegal fishing, which threatens marine resources and could harm their economies.
He stressed that Canberra regarded illegal activities at sea as a significant economic threat and called for stronger joint efforts to prevent and combat such practices.
He added that maritime security cooperation would strengthen both countries’ capacity to combat transnational crime, safeguard marine resources and promote the responsible management of waters under their respective jurisdictions.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Filomeno Martins
