Timor-Leste is a country of immediate importance to Australia’s security and is fundamental to Australia’s strategic interests. As one of Australia’s closest neighbours, it is a good thing to have friendly relations. Timor-Leste should be front and centre in Australia’s strategic outlook, foreign policy and personal connections.

Australia and Timor-Leste share a complex history and the two countries have become undeniably intertwined through Timor-Leste’s journey to independence. There is considerable scope for Australia to strengthen its partnership with Timor-Leste’s government and people, thereby strengthening peace and prosperity in Timor-Leste and contributing to Australia’s strategic objectives. Investing in a more secure and stable immediate neighbourhood will reap benefits for Australia, Timor-Leste and the broader region.

In shaping a shared future, Australia should position itself as a genuine and invested neighbour and partner to Timor-Leste, responsive to Timor-Leste’s priorities for development. The focus should be a shared, long-term future. Climate change is seen as a significant threat to the region and should be prioritised by Australia in both its international and domestic policies.

Doing this effectively requires applying all arms of statecraft, ensuring both sufficient investment across development, diplomacy and defence and the effective coordination of the activities of each in support of common strategic objectives.