Timor-Leste Reaches Out to Indonesia to Solve Border Issue

Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão, stated today that he has penned a letter to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to address the border issue between the two countries in Oecussi, a Timorese enclave on the Indonesian side of the island of Timor.

Gusmão shared, ‘I informed the President about the ongoing problem in the Oecussi area. I have already written a letter to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and also to Indonesia’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Okto Dorinus Manik, conveying the urgency of resolving the issue peacefully.’

The border situation in Oecussi has been a point of contention between Timor-Leste and Indonesia, and Gusmão’s correspondence aims to push for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.

President Prabowo Subianto has yet to publicly respond to Gusmão’s letter, but Timorese authorities are hopeful that Indonesia will engage in constructive dialogue to find a mutually beneficial resolution for the border issue in Oecussi.

The Oecussi enclave, located within Indonesian territory, has been a complex issue for both nations, and a peaceful resolution is crucial to maintaining stability and fostering positive relations between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.

Timor-Leste’s Foreign Minister, Marie Alkatiri, emphasized the importance of open communication and cooperation between the two countries to address the border challenges and ensure the well-being of the communities living in the region.

Efforts to address the border issue reflect Timor-Leste’s commitment to upholding peaceful diplomacy and working collaboratively with Indonesia to resolve conflicts and promote stability in the region.