President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, said that the Falintil-Defence Forces of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) must modernise to effectively prevent and control transnational crimes at sea.
He added that maritime security plays a crucial role in safeguarding Timor-Leste’s waters from various crimes and in protecting the country’s marine resources.
“For this responsibility to function effectively, it is necessary to develop and modernise the F-FDTL and ensure proper control and prevention of transnational crime at sea,” he said.
The PR noted that transnational crimes pose a serious threat to Timor-Leste, including the danger of drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal immigration, and the dumping of hazardous waste in Timor-Leste’s waters.
“F-FDTL, particularly the Naval Component, has a vital role in defending and securing maritime resources. Therefore, modernisation is essential,” President Horta explained.
PR Horta also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in combating transnational crimes, as well as the need to establish strategic military programs and funding plans to support F-FDTL’s modernisation.
The President also highlighted the protection of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the sustainable development of Greater Sunrise, and the conservation of Atauro Island’s marine biodiversity as national priorities.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence, Rear Admiral Donaciano Costa Gomes “Pedro Klamar Fuik,” said that compared to previous years, F-FDTL has now begun its development process.
“We continue to invest in various areas to modernise the F-FDTL institution,” he said.He added that it is necessary to acquire small-scale equipment for deployment at different posts to monitor the waters while also investing in capacity building and infrastructure. He called on F-FDTL to carry out missions using its available resources and equipment to combat illegal activities at sea.
