DILI, 07 May 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste and Australia discussed measures to strengthen cybersecurity, digital protection and responses to cyber risks during a meeting in Dili on Wednesday, as the two countries deepen cooperation under a bilateral strategic partnership.
Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers Agio Pereira met Australian Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Jessica Hunter at the Government Palace to review ongoing efforts to strengthen Timor-Leste’s cyber resilience and institutional capacity.
The meeting was also attended by Strategic Intelligence National Service (SNIE) Director-General Longuinhos Monteiro, Australian Ambassador to Timor-Leste Caitlin Wilson, representatives from the Australian embassy and advisers from the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
The discussions took place under the “Foun ba Era Foun” (“New Partnership for a New Era”) framework, a bilateral cooperation agreement between Timor-Leste and Australia covering several strategic sectors, including cybersecurity.
During the meeting, the Australian delegation presented the findings of a gap analysis and a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening the Timorese government’s cybersecurity capabilities. The assessment was prepared by Australian consultancy Scyne Advisory and includes recommendations on institutional strengthening, national coordination and improved prevention and response to cyber threats.
Pereira said many of the priority areas, measures and recommendations identified in the report are already included in Timor-Leste’s national cybersecurity package currently under development.
The proposed legislative package includes measures to strengthen the country’s legal and institutional cybersecurity framework, including the development of a National Cybersecurity Strategy and legal regimes covering cyberspace security, digital services, cybercrime and whistleblower protection.
The initiative is aimed at improving the security of networks and information systems, protecting critical infrastructure and essential services, strengthening cyber incident response capabilities and promoting safer digital practices among citizens, businesses and public institutions.
The package also предусматриes strategic coordination mechanisms and stronger national and international cooperation on cybersecurity matters.
Hunter also shared Australia’s experience in addressing global cyber risks and the measures it has adopted to strengthen digital resilience.
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