Unpacking the relationship between Timor Leste and China: the goals of economic and social stability for the young nation.

Timor Leste has various diplomatic ties and connections with multiple countries, however

the bilateral relationship they share with China is innately complex. Earlier this year Jose

Ramos Horta, current president of Timor Leste, visited China where he held visits with Xi

Jinping, president of China. The visit entailed conversing on international issues of concern

to both nations, and their ongoing friendship, of which is embodied in their goals to further

the economic and social stability of Timor Leste.

China is a major player in the growth and development of Timor Leste. Xi Jinping has

voiced on multiple occasions his support for Timor Leste's continued growth, of which

China has been aiding since 2002. The two countries have strategized on their relations, and

have identified four key areas of which they are placing their focus; industry revitalisation,

infrastructure development, food security, and livelihood improvement. Such goals can be

seen as strived toward through their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which outlines

the two countries' plan to enhance the wellbeing of both nations.

Similarly, China has vocalised their support for Timor Leste joining ASEAN and their

goals to support them through their partnership, and consequently the Belt and Road

Initiative (BRI). The BRI is an infrastructure initiative cultivated by China in an aim to

integrate regional areas, of which has taken place in Timor Leste, among 147 other states.

Given the nature of the partnership, it is clear that their engagement is driven by the

economic and political needs of Timor Leste. Both nations have agreed to close military

collaboration and cooperation on pressing social issues of which both nations face.

Their relationship continues to exist despite concerns from both Australia and the US.

These countries have voiced concerns regarding China's growing influence over the

Indo-Pacific region, and have noted that this partnership is further contributing to China's

power in that space. Jose Ramos Horta responded to such concerns with a statement that

outlined the need of such a young nation to employ bilateral support from all avenues.

Jose Ramos Horta has stated that Timor Leste has ‘an excellent relationship with China’

and he does not ‘feel China is a threat to the world.’ This sentiment, and the various forms

of collaboration outline, emphasises the nature of the bilateral relationship, and how its goal

is to further the social and economic development of Timor Leste.