New Zealand Residence in Dili

As I am in a New Zealand setting, it seems appropriate that I should begin by greeting everyone in the languages of the realm of New Zealand: in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language. Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni and as it is the evening (Sign)

I then specifically greet you: Your Excellency Ameerah Haq, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General; Your  Excellency Tim McIvor, New Zealand’s Ambassador to Timor-Leste and fellow members of the diplomatic corps, notably Your Excellency Peter Heyward, Ambassador for Australia to Timor-Leste; Col Simon Stuart, Commander of the International Stabilisation Force and your deputy Lt Col Garry Brosnan; Wing Commander Allison Wells; Inspector John Doherty;  Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen—in the context of this evening’s gathering, may I add the greetings: Bom dia.

Ambassador Tim McIvor, it is a great pleasure for my wife Susan and I to be in Timor-Leste, and to join you on this lovely evening at the New Zealand Residence. 

New Zealanders have lived here since 1999, when I understand it was affectionately known as “Kiwi House”.  It was then the home of New Zealand military deployed as part of INTERFET, and of customs officials and only later did it become the Official New Zealand Residence.

New Zealand’s involvement in Timor-Leste goes back more than 10 years and much has happened during that time.

This is my first visit to Timor-Leste, although I have heard much of this country and will always recall with warmth the unforgettable welcome here this afternoon led by children. 

I understand that in the last two years Timor-Leste has made great progress.  The security situation remains calm and there are many signs of economic development, particularly in Dili.  The Government of Timor-Leste are to be congratulated for this.

I have three objectives for my visit.  First, to learn more about Timor-Leste and its people.  Second, to meet New Zealand military and police deployed here as part of the international security presence.  Third, to attend celebrations on Thursday of the restoration of independence in 2002.

I am very much looking forward to my visit.  Already I have met with many of the New Zealand ISF and have been briefed on their role in Timor-Leste.

To New Zealanders here tonight, whether you are officials or acting in another capacity, let me say that your contribution is greatly appreciated in Wellington.  The New Zealand Government remains fully committed to supporting Timor-Leste in areas, Mr President, where your Government feels we can be helpful.

And on that note, I will close using New Zealand’s first language, Māori, offering greetings and wishing everyone good health and fortitude in your endeavours. No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa.