SIXTEEN YEARS SINCE INTERFET DEPLOYED

SIXTEEN YEARS SINCE INTERFET DEPLOYED

21 September 2015

Yesterday, 20 September, marks 16 years since the Australian-led International Force for East Timor (INTERFET) deployed to Dili to restore peace and security.

The Australian Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Mr Peter Doyle, acknowledged this anniversary and paid tribute to the courage and professionalism of Australian and coalition troops who rapidly worked to assist the new nation of Timor-Leste and prevent further loss of life.

“The work of INTERFET and its successor missions have been crucial in establishing the security conditions necessary for nation building” Ambassador Doyle said.

“Australia highly values the close bonds of friendship that have been forged between our two nations and that were enhanced during this time of adversity. Australia is committed to working with Timor-Leste to secure the peace and prosperity of the Timorese people for years to come.”

The INTERFET deployment was the first time that Australia had organised and led a multinational peacekeeping operation. Twenty-two nations contributed forces to INTERFET, with more than half the troops being provided by the Australian Defence Force. At its height, around 5,700 Australian troops, together with ships and aircraft from the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force, were deployed as part of the INTERFET mission.

Australian Defence Force personnel are still present in Timor-Leste today providing mentoring support to their F-FDTL counterparts as part of Australia’s Defence Cooperation Program.