26 January 2007, Dili—The Government of Timor-Leste, the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and the Government of Australia have reached a trilateral agreement on the provision of assistance to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today in a brief ceremony at the UNMIT headquarters, which included participants via video teleconferencing from UN headquarters in New York.

With the MOU, the participants establish a Trilateral Coordination Forum to "serve as a the mechanism for the Government of Timor-Leste, UNMIT and the International Security Forces (ISF) to discuss security issues relevant to the management and stabilization of the security environment in Timor-Leste, including security operations, and ensure full coordination between the participants, through close consultation and information sharing."

"While we have always maintained good cooperation between all three parties," Special Representative of Secretary-General Atul Khare said, "formalizing of a Trilateral Coordination Body is a useful step forward in clarifying how security cooperation between the three bodies will move forward in a way that will promote a sustainable stability in Timor-Leste."

"It is an important step and I am delighted that the signing today coincides with Australia Day," SRSG Khare commented.

He stressed that both the ISF and UNMIT will continue to respect the sovereignty and independence of Timor-Leste. "We are here to assist and support the Government of Timor-Leste, but it is the Timorese who have the prime responsibility for maintenance of security and stability." he said.

In a press conference after today's signing, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in Timor Leste, His Excellency Jose Luis Guterres said it was a culmination of efforts between Australia, Timor Leste and the United Nations which would maximise coordination of works in the area of security.

The Ambassador of Australia to Timor Leste, Her Excellency Margaret Twoomey said it formalised the cooperation between her Government and that of Timor Leste and the United Nations.

For additional information, please contact: Allison Cooper, Spokesperson at +670 723 0453 or Donna Cusumano at +670 723 0749.