The Australia Timor-Leste Friendship Network (AusTimorFN) was established in 2009. It is an umbrella for over 40 Friendship Associations from around Australia, each of which enjoys a special relationship with a municipality or town in Timor-Leste. These Associations, in collaboration with local government, private sector and service organisations such as Rotary have done amazing work to help Timor-Leste rebuild. Special and enduring friendships and people to people connections are, however, the hallmark of these Friendship Groups. Find out more and sign up to receive emails about forthcoming highlights and events.
Listen to the brains behind the Friendship Association concept reflect on the 20 years since the vote for independence. Abel Guterres is the former Ambassador to Australia and an inspiring advocate for the rights and interests of his people. I am proud to call him a personal friend.