UN peacekeeping force in East Timor begins downsizing process

The United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) today began the gradual reduction of its peacekeeping component with a ceremony to mark the imminent departure of the 264-strong Kenyan contingent.

This is the first in a series of downsizing moves that will reduce the current authorized level of 8,000 international troops to around 5,000 by East Timor's independence on 20 May 2002. The bulk of the downsizing will occur in the eastern half of the country as the first battalion of the East Timor Defence Force becomes fully operational by mid-2002.

UNTAET chief Sergio Vieira de Mello praised the Kenyan contingent for their professionalism since its December 2000 deployment. "The Kenyan contingent has been exemplary in the way it has integrated with the East Timorese community," he said, citing among other examples their willingness and aptitude in learning Tetum, the national language.

The Kenyan troops are handing over their authority and duties to a Dili-based Portuguese battalion, which, along with UN Civilian Police, will patrol Ermera as well as provide emergency medical assistance. Efforts have been made by senior peacekeeping force officials in the past weeks to reassure Ermera communities that their continued security will be guaranteed despite the Kenyan contingent's departure.