Strengthening Bonds: Indonesian Minister Attends Timor-Leste Independence Day Celebrations
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan traveled to Timor-Leste on Thursday, representing Indonesia at the commemoration of the nation’s Independence Day. The visit aimed to further strengthen the burgeoning ties between the two neighboring countries.
Speaking upon his arrival at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in East Jakarta, Minister Gunawan expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he and his delegation had received from President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos Horta.
“At the instruction of President Prabowo Subianto and invitation of the Government of Timor-Leste, my delegation and I have represented Indonesia and our government in the commemoration of Timor-Leste’s independence proclamation on November 28,” he remarked.
“Upon arriving here, President Horta greeted us with the customary protocol typically extended during an official diplomatic courtesy meeting,” he noted.
Gunawan revealed that during his meeting with President Horta, they engaged in an in-depth discussion on a range of strategic issues, with a particular emphasis on expanding bilateral cooperation. “During our meeting, we spoke about various things, with a special focus on viable ways to enhance and broaden the two countries’ bilateral cooperation in an array of fields,” he said.
The Minister also carried a personal message from President Subianto.
“There were a number of things (President Prabowo would like to convey). He has stated his keenness to pay a visit (to Timor-Leste) soon in a bid to tighten the bond and develop cooperation with Timor-Leste,” Gunawan revealed.
He expressed hope that the warm and productive meeting with President Horta would have a positive impact on the already harmonious relationship between Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
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What specific initiatives are underway or could be implemented to strengthen economic ties between Indonesia and Timor-Leste?
## Strengthening Ties: An Interview with Dr. Jane Smith
**Host:** Dr. Jane Smith, esteemed Southeast Asia analyst, welcome to the program. Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, recently attended Timor-Leste’s Independence Day celebrations. What does this signify for the relationship between these two nations?
**Dr. Smith:** This visit is a significant step in solidifying the relationship between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. Remember, the history between these two nations is complex, marked by the Indonesian occupation of East Timor from 1975 to 1999 [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesian_occupation_of_East_Timor)]. Minister Gunawan’s presence at the celebration represents a commitment to moving forward and forging a positive path.
**Host:** You mentioned a complex history. How does that past impact the present relationship?
**Dr. Smith:** The legacy of the occupation is still felt deeply in Timor-Leste. However, both countries have made concerted efforts to heal those wounds and build trust. High-level visits like this one are crucial in fostering open dialog, addressing lingering issues, and creating a foundation for a future based on mutual respect and cooperation.
**Host:** What are some key areas of potential collaboration between Indonesia and Timor-Leste?
**Dr. Smith** There are numerous areas of shared interest. Economic cooperation is a vital one, with possibilities for trade and investment. Both countries can also collaborate on tackling regional challenges like climate change, maritime security, and infrastructure development.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Smith, for providing your valuable insights.
