Remarks of the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Timor-Leste on the Recent Article by Journalist Ms. Meaghan Tobin
2019-08-09 15:47

On 3rd August, the South China Morning Post published an article written by Ms. Meaghan Tobin titled Chinese Cash: Enough to Keep East Timor our of ASEAN? hyping China's assistance in Timor-Leste's economic development could become a "Trojan horse for China's influence" after Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN. The above viewpoints are groundless and of malicious speculation.

First, China and Timor-Leste are good partners of friendly coexistence and equal treatment. China was the first country to recognize the independence of Timor-Leste. Since the two countries established diplomatic ties 17 years ago, China has conducted mutually beneficial trade and investment cooperation with Timor-Leste on the basis of mutual respect and equal treatment, championing the values of upholding justice and pursuing shared interests. China has also provided Timor-Leste with assistance within its ability. China-Timor-Leste cooperation facilitates a better and faster development of Timor-Leste and helps to consolidate the traditional friendship between the two countries. The article's views on China exposed its prejudice against China as well as China-Timor-Leste relations. The leaders and people of Timor-Leste appreciate the long-term assistance and support from China. Just as Former-President H.E. Mr. José Ramos-Horta and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation H.E. Dr. Dionísio da Costa Babo Soares have mentioned recently, China provides sincere assistance to Timor-Leste with no political strings attached.

Second, Timor-Leste's application to join ASEAN is a matter just between the two sides. As a common partner of Timor-Leste and ASEAN, China is pleased to see Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN as well as respect any decision made by ASEAN and Timor-Leste. Cooperation between China and Timor-Leste does not contradict Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN. The fact is, Timor-Leste's cooperation with China helps to narrow the development gap between Timor-Leste and ASEAN countries, thus helps Timor-Leste to reach the accession thresholds of ASEAN. That is exactly what Timor-Leste has been expecting for many years.

Third, Timor-Leste upholds an equal, cooperative and independent foreign policy of wide friendship and zero enemies. It is unethical for those who force Timor-Leste to take sides between China and ASEAN, and it is believed that the Timorese Government and people never agree as well.

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