UN and Timor-Leste will work together closely on remaining tasks, says envoy

The United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste will be consulting closely on how the world body can best support the country’s efforts to secure a stable and prosperous future between now and 2012, when it is expected that the UN mission will close its operations there, said a senior official.

“I look forward very much to the dialogue with the Government about how best UNMIT and the United Nations can support the national process in the next three years,” said Ameerah Haq, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Timor-Leste and head of the UN mission there (UNMIT).

Speaking at a joint press conference with Deputy Prime Minister José Luís Guterres in the capital, Dili, Ms. Haq said she expected that the mission – whose current mandate runs until February 2011 – will continue this year at its present strength, but will gradually start phasing down starting next year.

“We want to work very closely with the Government from now on to start our planning, to see how we manage that gradual reduction so that we can make sure that in the remaining period we are providing the kinds of support that the Government wants, which will help to consolidate peace and development in Timor-Leste,” she added.

Briefing the Security Council last month, Ms. Haq reported that Timor-Leste – which the UN shepherded to independence in 2002 – has made “remarkable progress” since the violence that disrupted it in 2006, but the long-term goals of recovery and development may prove even more challenging.

“Timor-Leste has reached a new stage, where there is an intensified focus on measures needed to sustain stability, deepen democracy and the rule of law, reduce poverty and strengthen institutions,” she stated.

Ms. Haq noted again today that there are “great” challenges in the area of socio-economic development that will require continued efforts by the UN, as well as the ongoing support of the international community.

Among UNMIT’s main tasks is to conduct a comprehensive review of the country’s security sector, training, mentoring and strengthening the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL). Nearly all of the mission’s more than 1,550 uniformed personnel are police.

“There is a lot of work to be done,” said the Special Representative. “The United Nations is ready to provide continued support to Timor-Leste, and to walk together with this vibrant nation towards its secure future.”