Dili, 21 May 2026 (Media Democracia) – Deputy Prime Minister and Australian Minister of Defense, the Honorable Richard Marles, made a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defense after participating in the flag-raising ceremony on May 20th at Tasi-Tolu.
According to the Minister of Defense, Rear Admiral “Pedro Klamar Fuirk”, Australia and Timor-Leste have a very strong friendship in cooperation.
“Because Australia and Timor-Leste have a very strong friendship in cooperation and in many areas, including defense cooperation, at this moment we discussed ways to further strengthen our relationship in the framework of cooperation, and we have also agreed to sign a bilateral agreement between Timor-Leste and will develop this agreement for the future.” said Minister of Defense Rear Admiral “Pedro Klamar Fuirk” to journalists at the Ministry of Defense, Fatuhada Dili, on Wednesday (20/05/26).
He said the Deputy Prime Minister’s visit here was to discuss establishing an agreement to further strengthen other formats that bring the two countries closer together so they can rely on each other and have an interest in working together.
In the same place, the Deputy Prime Minister and Australian Minister of Defense, the Honorable Richard Marles, said he felt honored to meet at this moment, where the two countries have great affection for each other, and neighboring countries can also share interests with each other.
“Today’s discussion was very positive, and then we looked at other matters, especially regarding the defense agreement, which we have also already carried out before.” said Australian Deputy Prime Minister the Honorable Richard Marles.
At the meeting, Richard Marles said this is a very positive step that both sides will strive to realize during these terms.
Through the signing of the agreement that will come, Australia is very optimistic about carrying out work related to the defense area on both sides.
Reporting: Estefánia Cardoso
Photo: Official Media of the Ministry of Defense