On 13 September, 2019, Ambassador Xiao Jianguo met with Mr. Jorge Camões, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste.
Ambassador Xiao firstly congratulated to Mr. Camões on his new position, and hoped that the two sides can further strengthen cooperation in the future. Then he expressed concern on land dispute related to the Tibar Port Project which is constructed by a Chinese enterprise.
Ambassador Xiao said that the Tibar Port Project is a key national project proclaimed by the Timorese Government, and involves the vital interests of the country and the people of Timor-Leste. However, the recent land dispute disrupted the construction of the project, and even caused the construction to a halt. The Timorese side is hoped to take effective measures to ensure the project can be advanced steadily, and the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese enterprise can be effectively safeguarded. The Chinese enterprise respects the Timorese judicial process, abides by the Timorese laws, and will safeguard its rights and interests by legal means.
Mr. Camões thanked Ambassador Xiao for his congratulation, and said that the Tibar Port Project is an important part of the country development strategy. But its judicial system is far from perfect shortly after Timor-Leste restored independence. It is believed that the Court will properly handle relevant land dispute, and the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese enterprise will be duly protected.