The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, and the Minister
for Defence, Robert Hill
Australia welcomes the announcement that Singapore's Major General
Tan Huck Gim will fill the next UN peacekeeping force commander
position in East Timor.
The appointment of Major General Tan recognises the significant,
important and ongoing support Singapore has provided to East Timor.
Singapore's commitment of peacekeepers, police services and medical
aid, as well as support at donors' conferences and in the UN Security
Council, helped bring an end to the violence in East Timor and is
assisting in the re-building of the world's newest nation.
Major General Tan is a respected and experienced officer. He will
replace Thailand's Lieutenant General Winai Phattiyakul, who has
rendered invaluable service in command of the UN's transitional
peacekeeping force.
Media enquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / Julie
McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555
