Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Air Vice Marshal Peter Stockwell, shares a humorous moment with the head of the East Timorese Military, Major General Taur Matan Ruak, during his visit to East Timor. CREDIT: LAC Leigh Cameron, Australian Defence Force.

Media Release

9 November 2010

Security Situation in Timor-Leste Improving

Advances have been made in the overall security situation in Timor-Leste says the New Zealand Defence Force’s Commander of Joint Forces, who has just finished a visit to the fledgling nation.

Air Vice-Marshal Peter Stockwell said New Zealand’s ongoing military Mutual Assistance Programme and the New Zealand Defence Force contribution to the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) contingent are paying dividends in terms of the positive security situation and with the development of Timor-Leste military forces.

“During this visit I wanted to touch base with our troops and see how they’re getting on with our mission and see if they have any issues,” he said.

“I was also able to engage with Timor-Leste security forces, both the military and police, and also with United Nations and government officials. I was pleased to see that both the Mutual Assistance Programme and the ISF troops continue to be highly regarded by Timor-Leste officials.

“Our mission is successfully achieving its aims,” said Air Vice-Marshal Stockwell.

ENDS

• The New Zealand Defence Force has been supporting various operations in Timor-Leste since 1999.

• The New Zealand Defence Force contribution to the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Timor-Leste currently consists of up to 75 personnel, having reduced from 140 in May of this year.

• The full New Zealand Defence Force contribution to the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) is now:
Ø Four personnel in the ISF Combined Joint Task Force HQ.
Ø Nine personnel with the New Zealand Defence Force National Command Element.
Ø 18 personnel in the National Support Element.
Ø 43 personnel make up the infantry component.

• The NZDF also contributes to Timor-Leste:
Ø One Military Observer with the United Nations Mission in Timor Leste.
Ø Five advisors to the Falintil-Forças de Defesa de Timor Leste (F-FDTL – the Timor Leste Defence Force).

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