Timor-Leste: A Nation of Resilience and Hope

Prof. M Zahidul Haque

Prof. M Zahidul Haque

Recently President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta came to Bangladesh on a three-day visit. During his stay in Dhaka, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Foreign Office Consultations (FOC).

The Chief Adviser of Interim Government of Bangladesh Professor Muhammad Yunus and President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta placed wreaths at the ‘Jatiya Smritisoudho’ to honor the country's Freedom Fighters to mark the Victory Day celebrations on 16 December 2024.

President Ramos-Horta’s visit marks the historic first-ever visit of a Head of the country Timor-Leste to Bangladesh. This visit opens a new vista of bilateral relations between the two nations. I sincerely appreciate Prof. Yunus and his Government’s initiative to strengthening diplomatic relations between East Timor and Bangladesh which would benefit both the countries in the field of culture, economic cooperation and trade and commerce.

Meanwhile, as I was going through the news published in the GREENWATCH, I remembered that my sister-in-law (elder brother’s wife) Sarwar Sultana who served the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) as an Administrator for Baucau, East Timor’s second largest city.

My beloved elder brother Dr. M S Haq (who is no more) served the Timor Aid. 

It may be mentioned here that Bangladeshi peacekeepers, including military and police personnel, were actively involved in various UN missions, providing security, logistical support, and humanitarian aid. Their contributions were highly praised for professionalism and dedication. My elder brother and Bhabi had spent a very interesting as well as thrilling days with the local people plus members of Bangladesh UN Peace-keeping Mission during their days at work in re-building the East Timor.

Now let us throw some light on the history, culture and other aspects of East Timor.

Timor-Leste or East Timor is one of the world’s youngest nations, achieving independence in 2002 after centuries of Portuguese colonial rule, followed by decades of Indonesian occupation and conflict. Located in Southeast Asia, it occupies the eastern half of Timor Island, with rugged mountains, tropical forests, and a coastline along the Banda and Timor Seas. The nation’s culture blends indigenous traditions with Portuguese influences, with Roman Catholicism as the dominant religion. The tais, a traditional hand-woven textile, is a key cultural symbol.

Agriculture underpins the economy, with staple crops like maize and rice and coffee as its primary export. Efforts are underway to modernize farming and enhance food security. East Timor also offers stunning tourist attractions, such as the Cristo Rei statue in Dili, Atauro Island's coral reefs, Mount Ramelau's trekking opportunities, and the serene Jaco Island. Visitors can also explore the country’s unique cultural heritage in villages like Baucau and Maubisse.

Dili is the capital of East Timor which is also its largest city and main economic, political, and cultural hub. East Timor uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. However, coins in centavos (equivalent to USD cents) are issued locally for smaller denominations.

East Timor's foreign policy is centered on maintaining peaceful relations with its neighbors and promoting regional stability. The country is an active member of international organizations such as the United Nations (UN).

There is no direct flight to East Timor from Dhaka. A visitor from Bangladesh needs to reach Dili via, Singapore, Australia, or Indonesia. Bangladeshi citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival in East Timor, valid for 30 days. Valid Passport plus other necessary documents are required for getting visa. It may be indicated here that East Timor and Bangladesh also signed an agreement on visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and official passports.

East Timor is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. While it faces challenges such as poverty and underdeveloped infrastructure, it remains a land of incredible potential and resilience. Its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. This author sincerely hopes that diplomatic ties and economic relations between Timor-Leste and Bangladesh will grow with fresh initiatives by both the Governments.

(Prof. M Zahidul Haque is a former Faculty and Dean of Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agriculural University and regular contributor to the GreenWatch, Dhaka)