East Timor President Alkatiri Meets Dong Jun

On August 18, East Timor President Taur Matan Ruak met with visiting Chinese Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe in Dili.

Taur Matan Ruak expressed gratitude for the long-term support and assistance provided by China since East Timor's independence, and hoped that the two militaries would further deepen and expand practical cooperation. East Timor firmly adheres to the One China policy and opposes any country interfering in China's internal affairs. The South China Sea issue should be resolved by the parties involved through bilateral negotiations, and East Timor is willing to work with China and other regional countries to make the South China Sea a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation.

General Wei conveyed the warm greetings of President Xi Jinping and extended sincere congratulations on the anniversary of the East Timorese National Liberation Armed Forces. He stated that the leaders of the two countries have reached a series of important consensus on developing relations, pushing bilateral ties into the best period in history. This visit marks the first time a Chinese Defense Minister has visited East Timor, aimed at deepening strategic mutual trust between the two militaries, enhancing defense cooperation, and providing strong support for the construction of a community with a shared future in the region. China appreciates East Timor's commitment to strategic autonomy, adherence to fairness and justice, and steadfast support for East Timor's defense and military development. We are willing to work closely with East Timor to enhance strategic coordination, improve the quality and efficiency of cooperation, and elevate military relations to a new level.

During the visit, East Timor Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak held a welcome ceremony for General Wei and engaged in formal talks.