Timor-Leste elections

I warmly congratulate the people of Timor-Leste on their successful parliamentary elections, and the Alliance for Change and Progress (AMP), led by HE Xanana Gusmao, on winning a majority of seats.

Australian and international observers confirmed that the elections were peaceful and well-ordered. The Timorese people turned out in high numbers to exercise their right to vote. I also congratulate the election and security authorities on the conduct of this election.

Australia is Timor-Leste's largest development and security partner. As near neighbours, we share mutual interests and deep people-to-people ties. We will work with the new government to deliver on our recently signed historic treaty establishing permanent maritime boundaries.

We look forward to the swearing-in of a new Prime Minister and Cabinet, as the Australian Government remains committed to deeper cooperation between our two countries.