1. The Institute of Diplomatic Studies

the Institute of Diplomatic Studies, abbreviated as IED, is the public legal person, in the form of a public institute, responsible for carrying out training and research activities in the areas of diplomacy and international relations. The legal rules relating to the structure, organization and functioning of the IED are approved by decree-law.

2. Timor-Leste Cooperation Agency

The Timor-Leste Cooperation Agency, abbreviated as ACT-L, is a legal entity governed by public law, endowed with legal personality, administrative and financial autonomy and its own assets. ACT-L is responsible for the supervision, coordination and implementing of the national policy for international cooperation for development, including humanitarian assistance, with a view to strengthening relations with East Timor.

3. The National Authorizing Officer (NAO)

The Services of the National Authorizing Officer (NAO) are responsible within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation to represents all operations financed by the European Development Fund (EDF) of the European Union. The NAO Services’ organizational chart is managed through the NAO, that in close collaboration with the EU Delegation (EUD), is responsible for implementing:

• Preparation and submission of programmes and projects, both national and regional (PALOP- TL and Pacific);
• Examination and completion of tenders prior to submission to EUD approval;
• Coordination, monitoring and assessment of projects and programmes funded through the11th EDF;
• Ensuring the proper execution of projects, programmes under the National Indicative
• Programme (NIP) and all disbursements of EU funding in the country;
• Preparation, implementation and management of NAO’s Programmes Estimates.

4. The European Union (EU) and Timor-Leste (T-L)

MoFAC, on 03 February 2022, The European Union (EU) and Timor-Leste (T-L) unveiled on the priorities for a new programme of EU/T-L cooperation. The EU will provide funding amounting to EUR 55 million for the period until 2024 to support a range of initiatives for the development of T-L and to promote mutually beneficial cooperation. The EU Multiannual Indicative Programme for T-L for 2021- 2027 was officially launched by H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Dra. Adaljiza Magno and H.E. Ambassador of the European Union to T-L, Mr. Andrew Jacobs.

With this new strategic document, the EU commits to provide support for the priorities defined in consultation with the Timor-Leste authorities. Other key stakeholders were consulted, in particular Civil Society Organizations, including women and youth organizations, local authorities, representatives from the private sector, the UN and other development partners of T-L.

The new programme has two main priorities: Priority 1 - Green and sustainable economic recovery and development; Priority 2 - Good governance for sustainable development. For the first phase, from 2021-2024, the EU will dedicate a contribution of EUR 55 million (approximately USD 61 million). The financial allocation for 2025-2027 will be determined following a mid-term review in 2024. Ambassador Andrew Jacobs said at the launch: "The European Union has a long-standing partnership with T-L, based on the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Today, we are marking a step in our cooperation, by committing ourselves to long-term support for green and sustainable economic recovery and development (a "Green Deal") and for good governance for sustainable development. I am particularly pleased that we intensify support to T-L in the diversification of the economy, and in its efforts at regional economic integration, including preparations for possible ASEAN accession."

The Minister Magno stated: "I acknowledge that the European Union programs within the framework of the new partnership of the European Union will complement the government's efforts for the well- being of the people of T-L. I urge my fellow government members of the relevant sectors to seize the opportunity and carry out the implementation of the government's plan to serve our people. And, I congratulate the European Union as the EU was the first development partner in T-L that is at the forefront of supporting T-L and implementing the principles of "Country-Owned, Country-Led and Use Country System". For this, I keep holding the annual political dialogue and regular public policy dialogues to be continued as the most valuable instruments to strengthen and maintain our cooperation" The adoption of the Multiannual Indicative Programme is an important step in reinforcing the EU's cooperation with T-L. It will enable the EU and T-L to continue working together  on programmes and projects that are built on shared objectives, principles and values. It comes at a time when the EU is starting to implement a new strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.