Dili, October 27, 2006 - The Timor-Leste Government has today reaffirmed its total support for the work being done by Australian and New Zealand troops in helping to restore law and order in the country.
First Deputy Prime Minister Estanislau da Silva said the Government deeply appreciated the efforts the Joint Task Force was making to help bring peace and security to the community.
"These soldiers are completely neutral and are conducting themselves professionally under very difficult circumstances," Mr da Silva said.
"It is important to remember they were invited here by the President of the Republic Xanana Gusmao; the President of the Parliament Mr Jose Luis Guterres; and the Prime Minister of the first constitutional Government of Timor Leste Mr Mari Alkatiri. All three pillars of State invited these soldiers to Timor-Leste.
"The Security Council of the United Nations passed a resolution setting up the new UNMIT Mission to Timor-Leste and this includes UNPOL and JTF631. They work cooperatively side-by-side and command each other's respect."
There are 1000 Australians and 110 New Zealanders in Joint Task Force 631 (JTF631).
For further information please contact::
Joel Maria Pereira
Information Officer
Gabinete Primeiru Ministru
Email: riko_joel@yahoo.com
Telephone: +670 7254740
Ivana Belo
Information Officer
Gabinete Primeiru Ministru
Email: unugina2004@yahoo.com
Telephone: +670 724 3559.
Julian Swinstead
Communications/Media Advisor
Office of the Prime Minister
Email: jswinstead@hotmail.com
Telephone: +670 732 7776.