SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence
Thursday, 2 March 2010
021/2010
Defence Minister Senator Faulkner welcomes
East Timor’s Secretary of State for Defence
The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today met with East Timor’s
Secretary of State for Defence, Dr Julio Tomas Pinto, reinforcing the
relationship between Australia and East Timor.
The meeting follows the United Nations Security Council’s decision on 26
February 2010 to renew the mandate for the United Nations Mission in Timor-
Leste (UNMIT).
Senator Faulkner and Secretary Pinto discussed a range of issues including
the improved security situation in East Timor, the role of the International
Stabilisation Force (ISF) and opportunities for enhanced maritime cooperation
and peacekeeping training.
“It is a great pleasure to welcome Secretary Pinto on his first official visit to
Australia,” Senator Faulkner said.
“The visit reflects the strengthening ties between our two countries and our
continuing mutual commitment to regional security and stability.”
The security situation in East Timor has remained stable since February 2008.
The focus of the ISF in East Timor is changing from security operations to
Defence cooperation and capacity-building to support the development of the
East Timorese military.
Further information concerning Operation ASTUTE can be found at:
Media note: Imagery will be made available at:
Media contacts:
Colin Campbell (John Faulkner):
02 6277 7800 or 0407 787 181
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
