Timor-Leste PM asks Abbott to explain government actions

4th December 2013

Statement by the Prime Minister of Timor-Lester His Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao

Timor-Leste deeply regrets the action taken by the Australian Government and its intelligence services pertaining to the current international arbitration on espionage which is about to commence in the Hague.

The actions taken by the Australian Government are counterproductive and uncooperative.

Raiding the premises of a legal representative of Timor-Leste and taking such aggressive action against a key witness is unconscionable and unacceptable conduct.

It is behaviour that is not worthy of a close friend and neighbour or of a great nation like Australia.

Timor-Leste highly values its relationship with Australia and with the Australian people.

Australia has stood by Timor-Leste through difficult times in our nation’s history. We find these actions to be disappointing and contrary to a trustworthy, honest and transparent neighbouring relationship.

I call upon the Prime Minister of Australia, The Honourable Tony Abbott, to explain his Government’s actions against our legal representatives and ensure the safety of our witness for a prompt, just and fair resolution of this important matter.

ENDS

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