7th Fleet Commander Meets with Senior Leaders in Timor-Leste

DILI, Timor-Leste (NNS) -- The commander of U.S. 7th Fleet met with key government leaders for defense and health in Timor-Leste during a June 24 visit emphasizing partnership and cooperation in the region.

During the visit Vice Adm. Scott Swift also gave a lecture at the National Defense Institute, spoke with members of the media, and hosted a reception in honor of the people of Timor-Leste.

The senior-level meeting participants included Ambassador Judith Fergin, Major Gen. Lere Anan Timor, Minister of Health Dr. Sergio Lobo and Secretary of State for Defense Julio Tomas Pinto.

Topics of discussion ranged from health care to infrastructure to military proficiency, including cooperative efforts in training Timor-Leste's doctors and health care professionals, construction projects by U.S. Navy Seabees, the desire for more robust military training and proficiency, and review of the Navy's long-term rebalance to the Indo-Asian-Pacific region.

"You've come a very long way within a short time," said Swift, commenting on the young country's having joined the community of independent nations just 11 years ago, in 2002. "I'm impressed with your focus on the long term, not just the near term."

Swift also commended Timor-Leste's government for its timely response to recent floods in the area. "It's an indication that leadership will ensure assistance is available and can be provided rapidly," said Swift.

"The visit of Vice Admiral Swift and the USS Blue Ridge has continued our joint efforts to expand the permanent partnership between Timor-Leste and the United States," said Fergin. "We look forward to strengthening our cooperation in health, education, and civic action engineering projects as a result of this important visit."

Swift concluded his remarks at the National Defense Institute by commending the military and its leaders, saying "You have been a great example to my forces. You have helped bring stability and security to the region and you are now seeing the fruits of prosperity."

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