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Timor-Leste establishes diplomatic relations with the Order
of Malta, 19 September 2006
The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Sovereign Military
Hospitaller Order of Malta today formally established diplomatic
relations.
Timor-Leste's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Mrs Adaljiza Magno
and the Ambassador of the Order of Malta for South-east Asia and
the Far East James Dominguez signed the agreement in Dili today
(Monday September 18, 2006).
Mr Dominguez said Timor-Leste and the Order of Malta had enjoyed
a good relationship for years.
"On behalf of the Order of Malta and on behalf of the Grand
Master, I am very proud to be here today signing this historic
document," Mr Dominguez said.
"I view today as the opening of the door to a more serious
relationship between the Order of Malta and Timor-Leste."
Vice Minister Magno said she hoped the new formal relationship
would result in increased support for her country from the Order
of Malta, particularly in the area of health.
"We owe the Order of Malta a great deal and we will never
forget their kindness to Timor-Leste," Mrs Magno said.
The Order of Malta is best known around the world for its substantial
humanitarian work, particularly recently in Asia following the
tsunami tragedies. The Order has shipped medical supplies to Timor-Leste
from Australia.
Ambassador Dominguez said the Order would be waiting for feedback
from the Timor-Leste Government to decide where they can best
provide help.
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