Media release

19 June 2008

Meeting with United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Timor-Leste

I was pleased to meet this week the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary‑General for Timor-Leste, Dr Atul Khare. 

The meeting provided an opportunity to further Australia’s close cooperation with the United Nations in our joint efforts to assist the people and Government of East Timor.

The Australian Government welcomes the important contribution made by the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) in promoting stability, human rights, democracy and the rule of law in East Timor. 

The Australian Government appreciates Dr Khare’s strong and effective leadership of UNMIT.

It is important for Australia, the United Nations and other development partners to remain closely engaged in assisting East Timor’s long-term development. 

In our meeting, Dr Khare confirmed that the United Nations sees a key role for countries such as Australia in the future of East Timor. 

Dr Khare said “We value Australia’s continued support for reform of the national police and army, strengthening of the rule of law and democratic governance and the promotion of socio-economic development”.

Australia remains a close partner of the United Nations in our engagement with East Timor.  Australia contributes 50 police to the United Nations Police in East Timor. 

The Australian-led International Stabilisation Force, comprising Australian and New Zealand soldiers, works closely with, and supports, the United Nations presence in East Timor.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555