Brussels, 08/03/2011 (Agence Europe) - Visiting Dili, the capital of East Timor from Tuesday 8 to 10 March, EU Development Commissioner Andris Piebalgs hailed the ACP state's remarkable progress in achieving stability, democracy and economic growth since it became independent in 2002, stressing the need for the EU to help sustain development because it remains fragile. Matching his words, the commissioner signed finance agreements with the finance minister, Emilia Pires, worth €39 million as part of the 10th European Development Fund. The money will be used to help implement the country's strategic plan for 2011-2014.
Addressing the Timor Leste parliament, the commissioner said: “Since the restoration of independence in 2002, the security situation has not been perfect, and your people have suffered, not least during the riots in 2006. However, the international community stood shoulder to shoulder with you and you succeeded. The fact that Timor Leste held free and fair elections already in 2007 is proof of your determination to build a strong and vibrant democracy. (….)Our focus today is to consolidate what has been achieved, to strengthen state institutions and improve living conditions in rural areas in particular. But we also continue to support this House… The 2012 elections will be another milestone in the consolidation of your democracy.”
Some €23 million will go to support rural development, €10.5 million for democratic governance (to support the parliament, legal system and local media) and €4.5 million for non-state players in partnership with international and local charities and non-government organisations working to boost good governance. (A.N/transl;fl)