Today I visited
Timor-Leste to meet senior Timorese Government officials and
to recognise Australian Defence Force personnel for the important
role they have played in re-establishing peace and security.
I met with President Xanana Gusmao, Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri
and Foreign and Defence Minister Jose Ramos-Horta. They noted
the improved security situation, which has allowed constructive
political dialogue to begin. On Monday, the Timor-Leste Parliament
met for the first time since the recent violence began.
The Government of Timor-Leste and the international community
are discussing how to support Timor Leste's long term stability.
Under no circumstances will Australia involve itself in the
internal political tensions in East Timor. Any differences
must be resolved legally
and constitutionally. A new mission to support Timor-Leste
should focus on political and community reconciliation, reinforcing
institutions such as Government and the Judiciary.
The stabilisation process would be underpinned by an international
security force made up of police and military elements. Discussions
are continuing with the Timor-Leste Government and the international
community regarding the structure and contributions to this
force. Around 2600 ADF personnel are currently deployed in
and around Timor-Leste as part of the multi national Force.
Brigadier Michael Slater is the commander of all deployed
Australian forces. Other nations contributing troops to the
multi national force include New Zealand, Malaysian and Portugal.
Each national contingent has its own national command structure,
with Brigadier Slater as the senior military officer coordinating
tasking between all contingents.
The multi national force is providing a robust presence in
Dili, rapidly reacting to incidents throughout the city and
steadily raising the
confidence of the local population. The multi national force
will continue disarming gangs and working to prevent violence.
I visited ADF personnel at units in and around Dili. They
are working hard and performing well, displaying humanity
and restraint in dealing with,
at times, very challenging incidents.