MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce that Australia will contribute $25 million this
financial year through international trust funds to help East Timor prepare
for independence and future development. Australia will provide funds
to an international Reconstruction and Development Trust Fund, and the
United Nations Trust Fund. These were discussed at a major donor meeting
in Tokyo this week.
The Reconstruction and Development Trust Fund will support a three-year
program aimed at rebuilding East Timor's economy and essential infrastructure
and services. The UN trust fund will support governance and administration,
with a strong focus on developing the capacity of East Timorese to run
an independent East Timor.
The Tokyo meeting held on 17 December was hosted by the Japanese Government
and chaired by the head of the UN Transitional Administration in East
Timor (UNTAET), Sergio Vieira de Mello, and World Bank Vice President,
Jean-Michel Severino. Representatives from a range of East Timorese groups
participated, including the CNRT led by Xanana Gusmao.
The meeting discussed the report of the Joint Assessment Mission (JAM)
to East Timor. JAM members included representatives from the international
community and East Timor. Priorities identified in the report include
rebuilding the civil service, particularly the health and education systems;
the rebuilding of essential services and infrastructure; and support for
agriculture which provides a livelihood for four out of five East Timorese.
The East Timorese people have also identified reconciliation within their
communities and the establishment of the rule of law as urgent priorities.
The Australian Government has strongly supported East Timor through the
largest emergency humanitarian program ever undertaken by Australia. The
contribution I am announcing today will help build the foundations of
a democratic and independent East Timor. Australia's total program of
assistance to the East Timorese this financial year will be at least $75
million.
| Media contacts: |
Innes Willox (Ministerial) |