Monday, March 9, 2009

Japan- Timor-Leste Summit Meeting

Prime Minister Taro Aso held talks with His Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Security of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, who is on an Official Working Visit to Japan, at the Prime Minister's Office.

At the meeting, the leaders exchanged views on matters such as strengthening of Japan- Timor-Leste bilateral relations, peace-building assistance, and confirmation of bilateral cooperation in the international arena.

Prime Minister Aso confirmed the importance for bilateral relations to be developed further, saying, "I cordially welcome Prime Minister Gusmao's visit to Japan. I hope to continue working to further develop future-oriented, good relations between Japan and Timor-Leste, including new forms of cooperation. We would also like to make arrangements for President Ramos-Horta's early visit to Japan."

Prime Minister Gusmao expressed his sincere gratitude on behalf of the people of Timor-Leste for Japan's peace-building assistance which commenced in 1999, prior to Timor-Leste's independence, referring to Japan's financial cooperation to a project supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), and other program; and also to personnel contributions by an engineering unit of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), civilian police, and an election monitoring group, and through technical cooperation and other steps. Prime Minister Aso stated that Japan would continue actively supporting peace-building efforts in Timor-Leste, for peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region, including Timor-Leste.

With regard to the bilateral cooperation in the international arena, the leaders confirmed their intention to cooperate in addressing issues that the international community faces, including the United Nations Security Council reform, North Korea, the climate change issue, and prevention of terrorism.

Related Link

• Japan- Timor-Leste Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)