Timor-Leste Send me a copy Subject: Email addresses provided here will be used solely to email the link indicated. They will not be saved, shared, or used again in any manner whatsoever. The CAPTCHA code you entered is not valid, please reenter the CAPTCHA code Timor-Leste Official Name: Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Last Updated: April 13, 2016 Embassy Messages One page required for entry stamp TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(670) 723-1328 Fax: +(670) 331-3206 ConsDili@state.gov Destination Description Occupying 5,743 square miles on the eastern half of an island in the Timor Sea between Indonesia and Australia, Timor-Leste has a population of approximately 1.1 million people. Timor-Leste became independent on May 20, 2002, and is a democratically-governed, independent nation with an elected President and Parliament. Following successful presidential and parliamentary elections and a peaceful change of government in 2012, UN and Australian-led peacekeepers departed Timor- Leste.

Decades of occupation and periodic eruptions of post-independence violence have left Timor-Leste with extremely poor infrastructure and limited economic opportunities. Electricity, telephone and telecommunications, roads, and lodging remain unreliable, particularly outside of the capital. Timor-Leste's economy relies largely on revenues from offshore oil and gas production. Read the Department of State's Fact Sheet on U.S.-Timor-Leste relations. Entry, Exit & Visa Requirements You need a passport valid for six months beyond the date of arrival in Timor-Leste. Travelers arriving by air may obtain a 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival for a fee of 30 USD. If entering Timor-Leste by land, you will need a visa prior to entry as visas-on-arrival are no longer available at the land border with Indonesia. You must renew this visa and pay an additional fee if you plan to stay longer than 30-days. Please see the website of the Timor-Leste Immigration Department for additional information on visas and extensions. Visitors traveling via air must transit Singapore, Darwin in Australia or Bali in Indonesia en route to Timor-Leste. The U.S.

Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Timor-Leste. Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page . Safety and Security If you are in Timor-Leste, you should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings, remain alert with regard to your personal security, and avoid travel after dark to the extent possible. Exercise caution in public places, including, but not limited to, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreational events, hotels, resorts and beaches, and other locations frequented by foreigners. You should review U.S. Embassy security messages and maintain a high level of security awareness while moving around the country. You should be alert to the potential for violence, and avoid demonstrations, large political gatherings, and areas where disturbances have occurred. Demonstrations can occur at or near symbols and institutions of the Government of Timor-Leste, including government buildings, police stations, and houses belonging to prominent politicians. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence with little or no warning.

Timor-Leste has experienced several episodes of violence since becoming independent in 2002. However, there have been no major country-wide civil disturbances since 2008, and international peacekeepers departed the country at the end of 2012. Timorese security forces occasionally establish official security checkpoints along roads.. You may be expected to show your passport at these checkpoints. There also are occasional illegal checkpoints not operated by the police or military in uniforms, which you should avoid, but which, to date, have been primarily targeted at Timorese nationals. If you are traveling in Timor-Leste, you should remember that despite its small size, much of the territory is isolated and can be difficult to reach by available transportation or communication links. All U.S. citizens should ensure that passports and important personal papers are in order at all times in the event it becomes necessary to leave the country quickly . If your passport visa pages are nearly full, apply for a new passport before you travel. The U.S. Embassy in Dili is not able to issue emergency passports and has only limited capacity to process passport renewals. The U.S. Embassy Dili works with the U.S.

Embassy Jakarta to issue emergency passports on a case by case basis. To stay connected: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. Follow the Bureau of Consular Affairs on Twitter and Facebook . Bookmark the Bureau of Consular Affairs website , which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution . Follow the U.S. Embassy in Timor-Leste by visiting the Embassy’s website and Facebook page In the event of an emergency, contact us at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or via a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries. Take some time before traveling to consider your personal security and check for useful tips for traveling safely abroad . CRIME: Crimes such as pick pocketing, purse snatching, residential and automobile break-ins, and theft occur throughout the country but are more frequent in the capital, Dili. These crimes often occur in recreational areas and facilities frequented by foreigners. Victims of crime who resist may face physical violence by perpetrators.

There is occasional gang-related violence, which, at times, has affected foreign nationals. Stone-throwing attacks on vehicles occur during periods of gang conflicts and civil unrest and have resulted in serious injury and death in the past. You should avoid travel at night or alone in unfamiliar areas. Women should avoid traveling or taking taxis alone, especially at night.. Women walking or exercising alone in Dili have reported harrassment and groping incidents. VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can: Help you replace a stolen passport. All U.S. passports are printed in the U.S., the passport application process may take 4 to 6 weeks. If you sitation requires you to travel sooner than 4 to 6 weeks, please call +670-332-4684. Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape. Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.

Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. The local equivalent of the “911” emergency line in Timor-Leste is 112, but the line is frequently busy or unattended. Please see our information for victims of crime , including possible victim compensation programs in the United States. Local Laws & Special Circumstances CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While you are traveling in Timor-Leste, you are subject to its laws. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. Persons violating Timor-Leste’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Timor-Leste are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. In Timor-Leste, you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your passport with you. If you are suspected of criminal activity, the law provides that you may be incarcerated for up to one year pending the criminal investigation. Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.

If you break local laws in Timor-Leste, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States. You can be prosecuted in the United States for engaging in sexual conduct with children or for using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country regardless of the legality of these activities under that country’s laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods are illegal in the United States and if you purchase them in a foreign country, you may be breaking local law as well. Arrest notifications in host country: While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in that country, others may not. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained overseas. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Scuba Diving Accidents: Timor-Leste’s diverse marine life and pristine reefs make scuba diving a popular pastime.

However, there is no hyperbaric chamber in the country for the treatment decompression sickness – a serious medical condition associated with underwater diving. The closest hyperbaric chambers are in Darwin, Australia and Bali, Indonesia. Medical services requiring a hyperbaric chamber can be very expensive and accessing those facilities would require appropriately pressurized air ambulance evacuation, therefore specialized scuba diving accident insurance is highly recommended. Options for scuba diving insurance include Divers Alert Network and Dive Assure . The closest hyperbaric chambers are located at: Royal Darwin Hospital Health Although limited emergency medical care is available in Dili, options for routine medical care throughout the rest of country are extremely limited. Serious medical problems require hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to Australia (the nearest point with acceptable medical care), Singapore, or the United States, and can cost thousands of dollars. Zika Virus: Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness, typically transmitted by the day biting Aedes aegypti mosquito, that can be spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby as well as through sexual contact and blood transfusion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has concluded that the Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and other neurological conditions.

For general information and the latest updates about Zika and steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to the virus, please visit the CDC website . You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the CDC website . For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website , which contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information . Travel & Transportation TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Timor-Leste, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. All traffic operates on the left side of the road, and most vehicles use right-hand drive. Roads are often poorly maintained, and four-wheel drive may be required in some areas. Sparse or non-existent lighting and poor road conditions make driving at night hazardous. Driving in Dili is especially hazardous, with large trucks and military vehicles sharing the streets with vendors, pedestrians, and livestock. Many cars and, especially, motorcycles operate at night without lights. Taxis, small buses, and mini-vans provide public transportation in Dili and elsewhere. However, public transportation is generally overcrowded, uncomfortable, and below international safety standards.

Public transportation operators have been known to unexpectedly drop passengers at locations other than their destination due to the operators’ fears about certain areas or hours. Disagreement about fares has occasionally led to hostilities. Public transport is generally inadvisable and is generally unavailable after dark, although taxis are occasionally available at select locations. During the rainy season from November to May, rain showers can severely damage cross-island roadways, making roads particularly risky. You should use caution when traveling on the cross-island roadways in the mountain areas of Aileu, Ermera, Manatuto, Ainaro, and Manufahi districts. Accidents occur frequently. When there is an accident, you should contact the police. Bystanders sometimes attack the driver perceived to be responsible for a traffic accident. T his is more common in rural areas and in accidents involving Timorese drivers, but crowds have occasionally attacked foreign drivers at the scene of an accident. If you are involved in an accident and believe that there is a threat of bodily harm from people at the scene of the accident, it is advisable to drive to the nearest police station before stopping. While vehicle insurance is required in Timor-Leste, compliance with this rule is limited and many drivers are uninsured.

Most traffic accidents are settled informally between those involved. Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Timor-Leste, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Timor-Leste’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page . Dili, East Timor - Travel Photos by Galen R Frysinger, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Dili Dili, spelled Dï¿½li in Portuguese, is the capital and largest city of East Timor. It lies on the northern coast of Timor island, the easternmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Dili is the chief port and commercial centre for East Timor, and has approximately 150,000 inhabitants. There is also an airport in Comoro, Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, renamed after independence leader Nicolau Lobato, which is used for commercial and military flights.

Dili is the seat of the administration of the district of Dili, which is the administrative entity of the area and includes the island of Atauro and some cities close to Dili city. The city is part of the subdistricts of Nain Feto, Vera Cruz, Dom Aleixo and Cristo Rei and is divided into several sucos, which are headed by a elected chefe de suco. 18 of the 26 sucos of the four subdistricts are categorized as urban. There is no city administration beside the district administrator, who was appointed by state gouvernment. The Timorese gouvernment started to plan in 2009 to change the status of districts into municipalities. Dili was settled about 1520 by the Portuguese, who made it the capital of Portuguese Timor in 1769. During World War II, Dili was occupied by the Japanese. East Timor unilaterally declared independence from Portugal on November 28, 1975. However, nine days later, on December 7, Indonesian forces invaded Dili.

On July 17, 1976, Indonesia annexed East Timor, which it designated the 27th province of Indonesia, Timor Timur (Indonesian for East Timor), with Dili as its capital. A guerrilla war ensued from 1975 to 1999 between Indonesian and pro-independence forces, during which tens of thousands of East Timor's and some foreign civilians were killed. Media coverage of the 1991 Dili Massacre helped revitalise international support for the East Timorese independence movement. In 1999, East Timor was placed under UN supervision and on May 20, 2002, Dili became the capital of the newly independent Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. In May 2006, fighting and rioting sparked by conflict between elements of the military caused significant damage to the city and led to foreign military intervention to restore order. Most buildings were damaged or destroyed in the violence of 1999, orchestrated by the Indonesian military and local pro-Indonesia militias. However, the city still has many buildings from the Portuguese era.

The former Portuguese Governor's office is now the office of the Prime Minister. It was previously also used by the Indonesian-appointed Governor, and by the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET). Even under Indonesian rule, during which the Portuguese language was banned, Portuguese street names like Avenida Marechal Carmona remained unchanged, although they were prefixed with the Indonesian word Jalan or 'road'. The Roman Catholic Church at Motael became a focus for resistance to Indonesian occupation. Nativity Legacies of Jakarta's occupation are the Church of the Immaculate Conception, seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dï¿½li, purportedly the largest cathedral in Southeast Asia, and the 'Integration Monument', commemorating the Indonesian annexation of the territory in 1976. Featuring a statue of a Timorese in traditional dress, breaking the chains round his wrists, the monument has not been demolished. Schools in Dili include St. Josephï¿½s High School (Colï¿½gio de Sï¿½o Josï¿½).

There are three International schools in Dili, an Australian managed school by the name of Dili International School, an American government sponsored school, called Quality International School and the Dili Education & Development Center, a Philippine International School. East Timor's major higher education institution, the Universidade Nacional de Timor-Leste, is based in Dili. East Timor country profile - BBC News BBC News Close share panel East Timor's road to independence - achieved on 20 May 2002 - was long and traumatic. The people of the first new nation of the century suffered some of the worst atrocities of modern times in their struggle for self-determination. When their Portuguese colonial masters withdrew in 1975, Indonesia claimed the territory for itself and ruthlessly suppressed the independence movement. Eventually the UN took over the administration and supervised the territory's transition to independence.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring FACTS Democratic Republic of East Timor Capital: Dili Area 14,609 sq km (5,641 sq miles) Major languages Tetum and Portuguese (official), Indonesian and English (working languages) Major religion Christianity Life expectancy 62 years (men), 64 years (women) Currency US dollar President: Taur Matan Ruak Image copyright Getty Images Image caption President Taur Matan Ruak (left) is veteran of the independence struggle while Prime Minister Rui Araujo (right) is a former health minister Taur Matan Ruak became president in May 2012 after winning the presidential runoff election. He had served as defence chief for a decade when he resigned in 2011 to run for the presidency. He is better known by his nom de guerre Taur Matan Ruak (A Pair of Keen Eyes), adopted during the Timorese guerrilla campaign against Indonesian rule. The president has limited executive power. He chooses the prime minister after elections.

Prime minister: Rui Araujo Opposition politician Rui Araujo was picked as prime minister in February 2015 as part of efforts to form a national unity government, following the resignation of independence hero Xanana Gusmao. MEDIA Image copyright STL Online Radio is the most popular medium and there are several community radios on air. There are a handful of daily and weekly press titles but a low rate of literacy limits readership. The UN telecom body lists East Timor as being among the world's 10 least-connected nations. Some key dates in East Timor's history: 1600s - Portuguese invade Timor, set up trading post and use island as source of sandalwood. 1749 - Timor split following battle between Portuguese and Dutch. Portuguese take the eastern half. 1942 - Japanese invade, fighting battles with Australian troops. Up to 60,000 East Timorese are killed. Japan in control until 1945. 1974 - Coup in Lisbon leads to a new Portuguese government that begins policy of decolonisation. 1975 - Portuguese administration withdraws to offshore island of Atauro.

After brief civil war, left-wing Fretilin party unilaterally declares East Timor independent. Indonesian troops invade. More than 200,000 people - a quarter of the population - killed by fighting, famine and disease that follow the invasion and during Indonesian occupation. 1999 - After a change of leadership in Indonesia, East Timorese are allowed to vote in an independence ballot. 1999 September - After 78% of voters opt for independence, anti-independence militia resume campaign of terror. UN takes over administration and prepares territory for independence. 2002 - East Timor becomes independent. Image copyright AP Dili - The Full Wiki The Full Wiki Note: Many of our articles have direct quotes from sources you can cite, within the Wikipedia article! This article doesn't yet, but we're working on it! See more info or our list of citable articles . Related top topics From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia For other places with the same name, see Dili (disambiguation) . Dili - Total ~150,000 Dili (deelee), spelled Díli in Portuguese , is the capital and largest city of East Timor .

It lies on the northern coast of Timor island, the easternmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands . Dili is the chief port and commercial centre for East Timor, and has approximately 150,000 inhabitants. There is also an airport in Comoro, Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport , renamed after independence leader Nicolau Lobato , which is used for commercial and military flights. Dili is located at 8°34′S 125°34′E﻿ / ﻿8.567°S 125.567°E﻿ / -8.567; 125.567 . It is also the capital of the district of Dili , which includes the surrounding area. Contents History Municipal flag of Dili during the Portuguese rule. Dili was settled about 1520 by the Portuguese , who made it the capital of Portuguese Timor in 1769. During World War II , Dili was occupied by the Japanese . East Timor unilaterally declared independence from Portugal on November 28, 1975. However, nine days later, on December 7 , Indonesian forces invaded Dili .

On July 17, 1976, Indonesia annexed East Timor, which it designated the 27th province of Indonesia , Timor Timur ( Indonesian for East Timor), with Dili as its capital. However, a guerrilla war ensued from 1975 to 1999 between Indonesian and pro-independence forces, during which tens of thousands of East Timor 's and some foreign civilians were killed. Media coverage of the 1991 Dili Massacre helped revitalise international support for the East Timorese independence movement. In 1999, East Timor was placed under UN supervision and on May 20, 2002, Dili became the capital of the newly independent Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. In May 2006, fighting and rioting sparked by conflict between elements of the military caused significant damage to the city and led to foreign military intervention to restore order. Buildings and monuments Saint Mary column Most buildings were destroyed in the violence of 1999, orchestrated by the Indonesian military and local pro-Indonesia militias (see Operation Scorched Earth ). However, the city still has many buildings from the Portuguese era.

The former Portuguese Governor's office is now the office of the Prime Minister . It was previously also used by the Indonesian-appointed Governor, and by the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET). Cristo Rei of Dili atop a summit on a peninsula outside of Dili Even under Indonesian rule, during which the Portuguese language was banned, Portuguese street names like Avenida Marechal Carmona remained unchanged, although they were prefixed with the Indonesian word Jalan or 'road'. The Roman Catholic Church at Motael became a focus for resistance to Indonesian occupation. Legacies of Jakarta 's occupation are the Church of the Immaculate Conception , seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Díli , purportedly the largest cathedral in Southeast Asia , and the 'Integration Monument', commemorating the Indonesian annexation of the territory in 1976. Featuring a statue of a Timorese in traditional dress, breaking the chains round his wrists, the monument has not been demolished. Education Schools in Dili include St. Joseph’s High School (Colégio de São José).

There are three International schools in Dili, an Australian managed school by the name of Dili International School, an American government sponsored school, called Quality International School and the Dili Education & Development Center, a Philippine International School. East Timor's major higher education institution, the Universidade Nacional de Timor-Leste , is based in Dili. Transportation Map of Dili and immediate surroundings. Dili is serviced by Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport , the only international airport in East Timor. Dili has the only functioning international airport, though there are airstrips in Baucau, Suai and Oecusse used for domestic flights. Until recently, Dili's airport runway has been unable to accommodate aircraft larger than the Boeing 737 or C-130 Hercules , but in January 2008, the Portuguese charter airline EuroAtlantic Airways operated a direct flight from Lisbon using a Boeing 757 , carrying 140 members of the Guarda Nacional Republicana . [1] Under Portuguese rule, Baucau airport , which has a much longer runway, was used for international flights, but following the Indonesian invasion this was taken over by the Indonesian military and closed to civilian traffic.

Sister cities View looking across to Atauro References Often considered part of Central Asia. 2 Full name is Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte . 4 See Positions on Jerusalem for details on Jerusalem's status. † Entirely in Southwest Asia but having socio-political connections with Europe. ₮ Often included in Southeast Asia . 3 Up to date as of January 14, 2010 From Wikitravel Get out This charming, lazy little seaside city suddenly found itself taking the role of national capital when East Timor became the world's newest independent country in May 2002. The city lies on the northern coast of East Timor, squeezed along the narrow plains between the central mountains which run the length of the Timor and the Ombai Strait. Dili is also capital of a district with the same name. The district includes the surrounding areas as well as Atauro Island. Understand Dili was the classic backwater during colonial times, being the main city of a remote colony in a remote part of the world. However, this heritage left Dili with a distinct Portuguese flavour and together with Macau , is probably the furthest east where you can savour genuine Portuguese food and architecture.

Dili has since recovered remarkably, although one can still see many gutted buildings. Map of Dili Dili has sort of a colonial core, with its waterfront and a square bordered on the south side by the impressive Government Buildings. The commercial areas of Lecidere lies to the east, Colmera is to the west and the former Mercado Municipal (Central Market) is to the south. Further west is the affluent If you are on the road directly in front of the East Timor Government Building, Palacio Do Governo, face away from the airport (towards the Jesus Statue) you will see a large white building and the Post Office is at the end of that building. Stamps for letters/postcards to Australia are US$1. As many of the streets are unnamed (making mail delivery impossible) you may want to get a post box. It’s fine to share them with others. Next to the post office is one of 2 Timor Telecom offices which sell sim cards for $20.00 this includes $10.00 worth of calls. Get in By plane Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (formerly Comoro Airport) (DIL) is located 6km west of Dili.

Indonesian carrier Merpati [1] has daily flights from Denpasar , Bali but cannot be booked on the internet. Australian regional carrier Air North [2] operates at least one flight a day from Darwin , Australia . There are also direct planes to Singapore with AustAsia Airlines [3] on Silkair aircraft. As there is hardly any competition, fares are high. There are no domestic flights. Getting there/away: Taxi drivers ask for at least US$5 for the trip into Dili. You could try bargaining. You can also walk out to the main road - which is the main road linking Dili with Batugade on the Indonesian border - to catch a mikrolet. By car Dili is well linked by road from the Indonesian border at Mota'ain, near Batugade, which lies about 115km west. A reasonably good road also links Dili with Baucau , East Timor's second largest city 123km west. The road continues east to Los Palos and Tutuala. Southwards, a road climbs up the mountains which run the length of the island of Timor, passing the hill town of Maubisse, on the way to the southern coast.

Cars can be hired from Rentlo but not Thrifty, as that company left in early 2006, shortly before the troubles began. By bus Buses fan out from Dili to various parts of the country. Most leave very early in the morning, and would do the "keliling" (going around town to scout for more passengers) before actually leaving Dili. West of Dili Buses leave for Batugade and the Indonesian border at Mota'ain. US$3. The journey is about 3 hours. Buses also go to Maliana and Ermera . East of Dili Several buses leave for Baucau early in the morning from Rua Quinze de Outubro just south of the stadium near the Mercado Municipal roundabout. US$2, 3 hours. These buses can also be caught at Becora, the suburb to the east of Dili. By boat Dili is no longer a port of call for Indonesia 's Pelni ships. There are also no regular boats to Australia. Get around Plenty of taxis shuttle passengers around the city for US$1 (although locals pay less). Further journeys, such as to Areia Branca beach and Cape Fatucama will cost more.

Mikrolets (vans converted to take passengers) also run from near the Mercado Municipal to Comoro, Becora and other suburbs of Dili and even further. They cost 20 cents per ride. Visit the Statue of Jesus that stands on a headland to the east of Dili. Rumour has it that, when the (mainly Muslim) Indonesians built the statue as a gift to the (mainly Christian) East Timorese, they designed it so that Jesus would be facing towards Jakarta. The statue is about 20 metres tall and stands on a globe of earth. The route from Dili along the beach and up the steps to the Jesus statue is popular with exercising internationals and local fishermen, and passes several niches representing the stations of the cross. The view from the statue across the bay to Dili is spectacular. From Dili, follow the main road east out of town. Taxi drivers will take you there for US$5 but you will need to pay extra to make sure they stick around while you have a look.

Just down and across the road from the Leader supermarket is a Church that has an English mass on Sunday morning at 10am (and Tetum Masses at other times). You can buy VCDs, DVDs & Audio CDs very cheaply. If you are taking a laptop its well worth having software installed. Visit Ramalau - the highest mountain in East Timor. You can stay at a place just before the top, and climb up for the dawn (a couple of hours climb). It is a fairly popular thing to do so ask around or ask at the Hotel Dili – they can arrange a great 4WD tour. NB: It is freezing at night! Visit Jaco Island. Jaco is the Island on the Eastern tip of East Timor. You will need a 4WD (you can hire them) but it is well worth the trip. You drive out to Baucau (a sensational drive – lots of rice paddies etc) and continue on to Tutuala. Ask directions there – you go down a road that is very overgrown after about 1km. The beach is white and the water is clear!

Take plenty of food and water because there aren’t any local eateries but you can buy fresh produce very cheaply on the way there (about 10% of what you pay in Dili), but you are just buying them from tables outside people’s houses so it is just a matter of what they have then. Often there are fishermen on the beach and you can purchase fish from them, which they will cook up for you. It is quite expensive, about US$10 per fish and $5 to cook but two fish plus some paw paws feeds 10. The fishermen will paddle you over to Jaco but its again expensive –about US$5 each. Still, it is amazing, a truly unspoilt beach. Atauro Island is more easily accessed than the other two destinations, and just beautiful. Atauro has a ferry that goes regularly for about $11.00 return. Chat with someone in a dive company about the best way to get there. You may be able to join a group or get some people together and make up a group and hire a boat (with crew and including lunch and snorkel gear) for a day. It is quite expensive but the water is incredibly clear.

There are 2 accommodation options at the Island one is Eco Lodge. Remember to book in advance to save disappointment. Dive around Dili and Atauro Island. Dive Timor Lorosae and Freeflow are two popular dive operators. There are a number of dive sites around Dili. Further out east, K41 and Bob's Rock are popular sites near Manatuto. Dive operators can arrange longer trips to Jaco Island. Don't pass up the chance to see the last untouched reef in the world. Learn If you are on the road directly in front of the East Timor Government Building, Palacio Do Governo, face away from the airport (towards the Jesus Statue). If you walk up the left hand road, about half way up on your right is Dili Cold Store supermarket, then you will find the Xanana reading room – a great place to know. There is a café at the back and inside is a small library (with English books), a video collection and documentaries about ET (with comfy chairs and a video so you can watch them there, and drink tea etc from the café!) and a book exchange.

The book exchange is great – an eclectic mix to choose from with the policy “bring a book and $1 and take away a book, or any book for $2”. They also sell lovely postcards and have internet access. Work Official working hours are generally 8.30 to 5.30, with a break for lunch from 12.00 to 1.30. Because most people go home for lunch, the actual lunch break is often 12.00 to 2.00! Some organizations work on Saturday mornings, but generally the weekends are free.

Public Holidays East Timor National holidays Law signed 19/07/05 New Year’s Day – 1 Jan International Labour Day - 1 May Restoration of Independence - 20 May Popular Consultation Day - 30 August All Saints Day - 1 November All Souls day - 2 November National Day of Youth Santa Cruz Massacre - 12 November Independence Proclomation Day - 28 November National Heroes day - 7 December Day of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception - 8 December Christmas Day - 25 December Good Friday - 14 April 6 April 60 days After Easter, Feast of Corpus Christi 15 June 7 June End of Ramadan, Idul Fitri - 24 October 13 October Muslim Calendar, Idul Adha - 31 December 20 December Tolerance Days ( national commemorative days ) International Childrens Day - 1 June Falintil day - 20 August International Human Rights day - 10 November Moveable Days Ash Wednesday – (46 days before easter) 1 March 21 February Holy Thursday – (thursday before easter) 13 April 5 April Ascension Day – (

40 days after easter) 25 May 17 May Buy There is an ANZ Bank branch in Dili, and there are two ANZ automatic teller machines – one at the bank, and one in Leader supermarket on the road to the airport.

The one in Leader doesn’t usually work. You don’t need an account with ANZ (in fact, there doesn’t seem to be any advantage to having one) but you do need a bank card which will allow you to use the ATM (eg Visa). The use of these machines can be expensive however – ANZ charges USD$5 per withdrawal. In addition you cannot transfer money from an ANZ overseas account to an account with the ANZ in Dili without incurring a USD$25 fee. It is best to contact your bank in your home country and seek advice about the cheapest and most efficient way to transfer money between accounts. Bank Mandiri , one of the major banks in Indonesia, has a branch in Dili. The bank is located close to the Government Building in Dili. Caixa Geral de Depositos , a Portuguese bank, also has a branch in Dili, and branches at several other locations within East Timor. The claimed branch at Dili airport consists of an empty desk & window, it is never staffed. Arte Moris, between Dili and the airport. Art center that sells Timorese paintings, often painted directly on Tais.

Recurring themes are local symbols and the life (and death) during the Indonesian occupation. The Tais market, located in Colmera (not far from Harvey World Travel) is a central place to pick up Tais, old coins, pottery and other curios. Beware the imitation Tais, which are sometimes from Indonesia. Eat There are plenty of restaurants in Dili, from local, Italian, Portuguese to Australian. Most popular in the evenings are the seafood BBQ places east of Dili on the beach. Budget Start at the East Timor Government Building, Palacio Do Governo. Head east, away from the airport. If you walk up the left hand road, about half way up on your right is Dili Cold Store supermarket. If you head out on the road towards the airport you will find the Comoro market (one of the two big markets in Dili). It is a little bit hard to find as it is set back from the road. If you are travelling from the UN building it is about a 20 minute walk – if you reach the Leader supermarket on the right you have gone too far! The markets are amazing.

When you first arrive they look grimy and the place is covered in dust in the dry season and very muddy in the wet, but if you go inside you will find fruit, vegies, coffee etc all piled in little piles (this is the measurement for purchases – around 10c for leafy vegies and 50c for everything else). If you live with a Timorese family it is wonderful to go there and bring home little treats like eggs and condensed milk, bananas and potatoes as they are usually beyond the everyday budget (rice and green vegetables are the staple diet of East Timorese). The Leader supermarket has lots of western treats including chocolate and toilet paper! Sleep There are plenty of hotels in Dili, ranging from cheap and basic (living in a container, with a window and a fan if you’re lucky, probably about US$5 per night) to less cheap and less basic (air-con and cable TV, probably about US$40 per night). Some cafes around town have ads for accommodation available, but generally the only way to find out where there are places available is to ask around. There are furniture stores around, but if you can find somewhere that is furnished it will save you a lot of hassle.

If you get friendly with someone who works for the government they may be able to help you find some furniture. There is one Real Estate Agent in Dili at Central Hotel near the post office which has a number of accommodation options. There are quite a few foreigners in Dili who live in hotels or guest houses permanently. Other alternatives include: ‘Kos’ style accommodation, where you get your own room and usually a bathroom, living with an East Timorese family; meals are usually shared with the family. The best way to find out about these places is to ask East Timorese friends or work colleagues. Rent is generally about US$150 per month. Advantages include learning Tetum quickly, getting more exposure to East Timorese culture and spending time with an East Timorese family. Disadvantages can include lack of personal space, and no cooking facilities. Share accommodation with other foreigners – there are plenty of shared houses of NGO people and UN people. Often the East Timorese owners will live next door. It would be usual to employ someone to help with cleaning, laudry and perhaps cooking. Few houses have washing machines. Most do not have air-conditioning either – you might want to invest in a fan.

Share houses are sometimes advertised in places like the Dili Dive Centre, but word of mouth is the best way to find out. If you are looking for an empty house to rent, again, it’s probably best to ask East Timorese friends or colleagues. Remember that places might not have furniture/a fridge etc, and purchasing these things can involve significant initial outlay. Rent for this sort of accommodation is generally between US$150 and US$200 per month. A cleaner visiting twice a week costs about US$25 per month. As well as getting your house and clothes cleaned, this also represents an opportunity for making friends with locals. Also, having someone around the house during the day when you are not there keeps the place a little more secure. If you can live with a Timorese family it would be ideal for learning more about the local language and culture but if not, get to know your neighbours – walking around your area and talking to people can go a long way. Budget Many prices in Dili now somewhat higher due to the artificial stimulation of the economy by the massive UN presence.

There is a Hostel Backpackers next to the Tiger gas station with offers double room for $US 25 and doom for around 15. Central Hotel, Av Presidente Nicolo Lobato (150m east of Palacio do Governo), ☎ +670 332 3888. edit Venture Hotel, Rua Filomena De Camara, Bidau Lecidere (Behind Lita store, on road from Fatima statue in park, across from coffin shop), ☎ +670 331 3276. $28/night, $285/month. edit Hotel Esplanada, Avenida de Portugal, ☎ +670 3313 088 ( admin@hotelesplanada.com , fax: +670 3313 087), [4] . edit Contact By net There are a number of commercial places where you can access the internet such as the business centre at many of the hotels. Globel Net has Internet $4.00 per hour they also have skype so bring your own head sets.

By phone There are virtually no landlines in East Timor. It’s a very good idea to bring a mobile phone handset, make sure you have it unlocked in your home country first otherwise it can cost up to $30.00 to have it unlocked here, and then buy a new sim-card from Timor Telecom (US$20.00 including about $10 worth of calls). Local calls are pretty cheap, and an SMS within East Timor costs $0.20. Calls to Australia are about 50 cents US per minute, or 40 cents off peak (between 8pm and 8am and all day Sunday). Calls from Australia are quite expensive – about $3.50 per minute. By post There are no street addresses in Dili (most streets don’t have a name) and there is no delivery of mail to houses. If you want to receive mail, you need to use a post office box at the central post office. Packages from Australia generally take about 2 weeks. It’s important that people write ‘via Darwin, Australia’ on the address, otherwise letters tend to go via Jakarta , Singapore or even Lisbon .

Letters/packages have been known to take up to one and a half years to arrive, and occasionally disappear altogether, although this is the exception rather than the rule. Stay safe The biggest risk in Dili is probably that of being involved in a traffic accident. It’s a good idea to bring a quality helmet in case you get a bike, or to use when riding on the back of other peoples’ bikes. Basic precautions will ensure personal safety in East Timor. It’s generally considered not safe for a ‘malai’ (foreigner) woman (and probably a malai man, too) to walk around alone after dark. There have been a few reported incidents of people riding in taxis after dark being robbed. There have been a few malai houses broken into overnight. Generally, though, it feels very safe to walk around Dili during the day – there are always lots of people around. Cope You can generally get everything you need in Dili, with only a couple of exceptions, although some items are more expensive. Some of the things you might want to bring are: Bring some US cash and Travellers Cheques. You will need US$30 for your initial visa on arrival at the airport.

It’s also worth ensuring with your bank that you will be able to access money from your account using your card in Dili. If you wear contact lenses definitely bring lens solution. It cannot be bought in East Timor. Also bring a spare pair of glasses and/or leave a copy of your prescription at home in case you need a new pair sent over. Laptop – good for work and for watching DVDs at home. You can get most new releases before they come out in Australia for about US$1.50. Make sure you have DVD software installed. You can also walk into most internet cafes and plug your laptop in to surf the net, email, download virus definitions etc. If you want to use your laptop at work, make sure it has a network card in it. It is a good idea also to bring with you a USB Memory stick. Floppy discs die here from the heat and you can’t download or access important information on them. You can buy Memory sticks here also for around US$50.00. You can buy clothes in Dili but as most Timorese are a lot smaller than your average Westerner it can be hard to find the right size. You're best off bringing as much as you need with you.

Also bed linen and towels etc are quite expensive. It’s a good idea to bring a set of sheets and make sure you bring your bathers! If you like coffee, bring a plunger or a stove top espresso making machine – there is great coffee in East Timor! Radio – at the moment East Timor can get Radio National and BBC World Service. There are also local radio stations broadcasting on FM such as Radio Rakembia Books - new ones are hard to come by here so if you are fussy bring some with you. You can also order them off the net and have them sent here. If you are not too picky about what you read (content or condition) you'll find book exchanges at Castaway, the Dili Club and One More Bar. Many foreigners are also generous in lending from their own collections. If you have a swag with a mosquito net or dome it would be handy for when you want to travel out into the districts. Definitely if you intend to ride a motorbike (scooter) bring your own helmet, you can buy them in East Timor but they are quite flimsy. With regard to dress rules there are no hard and fast rules.

Dili is more liberal than the districts, where people will expect women to wear clothes which cover their shoulders (ie not sleeveless) and trousers or a skirt below the knee. Men never go shirtless, and East Timorese men never wear shorts (although quite a lot of foreigners do). Generally, it’s better to err on the conservative side. The most respectable clothing for young males are jeans with a buttoned through, short-sleeved, collared shirt. There are a number of clothing shops in Dili but they are made for Timorese sizes so it is generally hard to find anything in a size bigger than an Australian 10. Dili is really hot all year round, but it can get very cold overnight in the central districts – so make sure you bring something warm. It’s a good idea to bring a solid pair of sandals, as well as some thongs and runners. Dinner can sometimes be a bit dressier and most people in offices come to work dressed smart casual. United States, ☎ (670) 332-4684 (fax: (670) 331-3206), [6] .

edit Get out Recommended Beach: Pasir Putih ("white sand"), about 3 km east of Dili (under the Christ Statue). Dive Timor Lorosae [7] offers diving and snorkeling trips to Atauro island for diving and snorkeling. This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow! Dili, Timor-Leste - Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate Dili, Timor-Leste Canberra Dili Friendship Agreement Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope led a delegation to Dili in June 2004 for the official signing of the Canberra Dili Friendship Agreement. On 7 June 2004 Mr Stanhope and Mr Ruben Braz de Calvalho, Dili District Administrator, signed the Agreement on behalf of the two cities. Aims of the Agreement The Canberra Dili Friendship Agreement aims to build friendship and mutual respect between Canberra and Dili and to promote educational, cultural, economic, humanitarian and sporting links between the two cities.

The Friendship Agreement was an initiative of the Canberra Friends of Dili and provides the umbrella for relationships between the District of Dili in Timor- Leste, the City of Canberra, and members of these communities. Canberra’s commitment to the Canberra Dili Friendship Agreement was reaffirmed on Wednesday 10 May 2006 by the ACT Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope at the Legislative Assembly. PDF 145KB] Embassy for the Republic of Timor-Leste in Canberra Beyond the confines of the Friendship Agreement, the ACT Government assisted the East Timorese establish an interim Embassy for Timor-Leste in Canberra, located in the former Griffith Primary School. This was handed over by ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope to East Timorese Ambassador Jorge Da Conceicao Teme in December 2003, and served until a purpose-built Embassy was completed in 2009. About Dili, Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste In May 2002, Timor-Leste (Formerly known as East Timor) became the world's newest independent state after 450 years of continuous foreign occupation.

East Timor was under Portuguese rule until 28 November 1975 when it declared its independence. East Timor was invaded by Indonesian troops 9 days later who designated it as province of Indonesia. A referendum, supervised by the United Nations on 30 August 1999 resulted in an overwhelming majority vote for independence from Indonesia. The following month, anti-independence Timorese militias - organized and supported by the Indonesian military - commenced a large-scale campaign of retribution. This led to an estimated 75% of the population becoming displaced and the majority of the country's infrastructure, including homes, irrigation systems, water supply systems, and schools being destroyed. Nearly 100% of the country's electrical grid was also wiped out. On 20 September 1999 the Australian-led peacekeeping troops of the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET) were deployed to the country and successfully brought violence to an end. Dili, the capital of East Timor lies on the northern coast of Timor island at the east most point of the Lesser Sunda Islands.

Dili is the primary port and commercial centre for East Timor and is also home to East Timor’s only airport for use by commercial and military flights. Today Dili has a population of approximately 50,800 people, which are predominantly of Malay, Polynesian, and Papuan descent. The vast majority of the population are Roman Catholic. Timor-Leste is one of only three predominantly Catholic countries in Asia and churches scatter the landscape. Timor-Leste’s economy is largely supported through agriculture; coffee is the Timor-Leste’s main exports as well as Sandalwood and marble. Industry is limited to printing, light manufacturing, and the production of handicrafts and woven cloth. Off shore oil and gas fields have begun to produce revenue. Nonetheless, unemployment, estimated at 50%, remains a significant problem. Timor-Leste Map (East Timor Map) Carte du Timor Oriental History of Timor-Leste The first inhabitants, who were of Veddo-Australoid and Melanesian origins, arrived in Timor-Leste (East Timor) some 42,000 years ago.

The first recorded Europeans to arrive were the Portuguese in the 16th century, who traded with the locals. By the middle of the century, the locals were colonized. However, it was only upon the arrival of the Dominican friars in 1556 that conversion to Catholicism occurred in the region. Timor-Leste remained a Portuguese colony for over 400 years, which ended briefly during the Second World War due to the Japanese occupation. Portuguese regained authority after the war. For the next decades, Timor-Leste (East Timor) remained a colony but development was very slow, with very little infrastructure built on the island. On November 28, 1975, Timor-Leste was granted full independence. Nine days later, Indonesian troops invaded Timor-Leste, making it an extension of Indonesia. For the next two decades, major investments were made to develop the country but it also came with an unprecedented wave of violence. A total of 102,800 conflict-related deaths were recorded. The atrocities done by the Indonesian troops against pro-democracy activists first came into international consciousness when the 1991 Dili Massacre took place.

About 200 unarmed and peaceful protesters were murdered at the Santa Cruz Cemetery located in the capital city of Dili. Western journalists, who recorded footage of the massacre, smuggled the tapes to Australia and were shown to the world. The event prompted the US to withdraw their support from the Indonesian military and growing pressure from the international community resulted to the support for an independent Timor-Leste. On August 30, 1999, a UN-sponsored referendum resulted to a 78% vote for independence, prompting Indonesian-trained anti-independence militia to wreak havoc in the country. About 1,400 people were killed, and over 300,000 people were forced to flee to West Timor as refugees. On September 20, 1999, the International Force for Timor-Leste, which comprised over 9,000 soldiers from many countries, mostly Australia, was deployed to Timor-Leste. The International Force eventually ended the violence. After the UN-administered transition period, Timor-Leste was recognized internationally as an independent sovereign state on May 20, 2002. It became the first sovereign state of the 21st century.

Geography Timor-Leste is located in Maritime Southeast Asia, at the eastern tip of the Indonesian archipelago. They are the largest of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with the Timor Sea to its south and Darwin, Australia about 600 km away. The main island is mostly mountainous with Tatamailau the highest peak at 9,721 feet above sea level. Climate is tropical with distinct rainy and dry seasons. Polities Timor-Leste has a parliamentary government, with the President as Head of State and the Prime Minister as Head of Government. The President is elected through popular vote and serves a five-year term. It is the President's responsibility to appoint the Prime Minister. The National Parliament, also elected by popular vote for a five-year term, accommodates about 65 members. Timor-Leste's constitution has been framed after Portugal but the government is still undergoing further developments in its administrative and government institutions. Travel Tourists are rare in Timor-Leste, with visitors mainly visiting the state for its serene beaches and protected bird sanctuaries.

Timor-Leste's first national park is the Nino Konis Santana National Park, which has over 200 cultural sites and protected areas that serve as home to many endangered bird species. It's one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Dili is the most popular city to visit. The capital was destroyed several times during the wars that took place but many Portuguese buildings still remain. Among the most popular sites in the capital are the Cristo Rei - erected during the Indonesian occupation in 1996 and the President's Palace on the northern coast of the city. Atauro Island is a small island off the mainland, with a population of 8,000, comprising mainly farmers and fishers. The island has a few resorts offering opportunity for scuba diving in the Coral Triangle, said to have the greatest coral reef biodiversity in the world. Education Adult literacy rate in Timor-Leste is at 58.3%. There are four colleges in the country with the National University of Timor-Leste being the main university.

Trivia Timor-Leste is one of only two Christian nations in Southeast Asia.Their currency is the US dollar.Timor-Leste is one of the poorest nations in the world with 37.4% of the population living below. the international poverty line.Elections were held in the state for the very first time in 2001. IW20141103 Dili - Real Estate at Weblo.com Dili Make Offer About Dili Dili , also spelled DÃ­li, is the capital and largest city of East Timor.. It lies on the northern coast of Timor island , the easternmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Dili is the chief port and commercial centre for East Timor, and has approximately 150,000 inhabitants. There is also an airport in Comoro, Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport , renamed after independence leader Nicolau Lobato, which is used for commercial and military flights. Dili is located at 8°34' South , 125°34' East (-8.5667, 125.5667).

It is also the capital of the district of Dili, which includes the surrounding area ...... Nicole Dili , also spelled DÃ­li, is the capital and largest city of East Timor.. It lies on the northern coast of Timor island , the easternmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Dili is the chief port and commercial centre for East Timor, and has approximately 150,000 inhabitants. There is also an airport in Comoro, Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport , renamed after independence leader Nicolau Lobato, which is used for commercial and military flights. Dili is located at 8°34' South , 125°34' East (-8.5667, 125.5667). It is also the capital of the district of Dili, which includes the surrounding area ...... Report Abuse Governor's Message On the 30th of August 1999, the people of Timor Leste decided on an independent future in a Popular Consultation under the auspices of the UN.... As the whole world watched, on May 20, 2002 Timor Leste finally became independent...

This event was the culmination of not only two stages of elections but also the majority of the UN withdrawing. Today's Timor Leste portrays a country beginning its first steps of freedom , peace , safety and true democracy.... On the 30th of August 1999, the people of Timor Leste decided on an independent future in a Popular Consultation under the auspices of the UN.... As the whole world watched, on May 20, 2002 Timor Leste finally became independent... This event was the culmination of not only two stages of elections but also the majority of the UN withdrawing. Today's Timor Leste portrays a country beginning its first steps of freedom , peace , safety and true democracy.... On the 30th of August 1999, the people of Timor Leste decided on an independent future in a Popular Consultation under the auspices of the UN.... As the whole world watched, on May 20, 2002 Timor Leste finally became independent... This event was the culmination of not only two stages of elections but also the majority of the UN withdrawing.

Today's Timor Leste portrays a country beginning its first steps of freedom , peace , safety and true democracy.... Top Ten in Dili Visit the most eventful and populated cities No cities found in this state Top 10 Landmarks Explore the most visited attractions found exclusively here No landmarks found in this state Top 10 Schools Find the most prestigious schools of the state East Timor Districts Aileu is an administrative district of East Timor. Ainaro Ainaro is one of 13 administrative districts of East Timor. Ainaro district is in the southwest of the country. It boasts many streams, fertile land and rugged terrain, including East Timor’s highest peak, Mount Ramelau. Historically, Ainaro played an important role during the brutal Indonesian occupation of East Timor, providing shelter for the mountain-based guerrilla resistance army. Former guerrilla leader and current President Xanana Gusmão spent many years directing the resistance from Ainaro. Ainaro sub-district & town Ainaro sub-district has a population of approximately 12,000 people.

The small mountain town of Ainaro, the district capital, lies along with the villages of Soro, Maununo, Cassa, Suro Craic, Manutassi, and Mau-Ulo in the sub-district. The town's main resources are its delicious organic coffee and aromatic sandalwood trees. It is a diverse community, where Catholics, Protestants, and Muslims are neighbors. Destruction of Ainaro Ainaro was also home to a large contingent of Indonesian military (TNI) backed militias in the months leading up to the August 30th, 1999 referendum on independence. As a result it suffered near-total devastation during the TNI orchestrated scorched earth operation with more than 95 percent of its buildings destroyed. Baucau Baucau is the second largest city in East Timor, after the capital, Dili. It is also one of the districts of East Timor. Bobonaro The Bobonaro district is the second most western district on the east half of the island. Bobonaro contains East Timor's fourth largest city, Maliana, which is also the district's capital.

As of 2004 it has a population of 13,200, and sits at 9.00°S and 125.22°E. The next two largest cities in the district are Aubá, with 6,700 people; and Lolotoi with a population of 3,800. It had been a popular destination in Timor, due to its mountains and hot springs, but it has suffered much violence in the war for independence. Cova-Lima Cova-Lima is one of the districts of East Timor. Dili Dili, also spelled Díli, Dilli or Dilly, is the capital of East Timor. It lies on the northern coast of Timor island, the easternmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Dili is the chief port and commercial centre for East Timor, and has approximately 150 000 people. There is also an airport in Comoro, renamed after independence leader Nicolau Lobato, which is used for commercial and military flights.

Dili is located at 8°34' South, 125°34' East (-8.5667, 125.5667). It is also the name of the surrounding administrative district. Ermera Ermera is one of the districts of East Timor. Lautém Lautém is one of the districts of East Timor. Liquiçá Liquiçá is one of the districts of East Timor. Liquica is situated on the northern part of Dili and its capital is situated around 35 km from Dili. During the beginning of the Portuguese occupation, a part of the Liquisa territory was taken by the Netherlands (Holland), it was Maubara sub-district. The Maubara fortification that lies near the the beach was built by Holland. Later on, Portuguese negociated with Holland and exchanged it with Flores Island, that was ocupied by Portuguese by that time. During the Indonesian ocupation, the Indonesian government has done many things, but after the referendum 1999 and during the militia`s campaign almost everything has been destroyed. Liquisa is one of the districts that suffered a lot the militia compaign.

There were many people killed during the Liquisa Church massacre. Manatuto Manatuto is one of the districts of East Timor. Manufahi Manufahi is one of the districts of East Timor Oecussi-Ambeno Oecussi-Ambeno (also variously Ocussi, Oekussi, Oekusi, Okusi, Oé-Cusse) is a district of East Timor. It is a coastal exclave on the western part of the island of Timor, separated from the rest of East Timor by West Timor, which is part of Indonesia. The capital of the province is Pante Macassar, also called Ocussi Town. It was in Pante Macassar that an Indonesian fifth column raised the Indonesian flag and took control of the exclave on 29th November, 1975, a week before the Indonesian invasion of East Timor proper. However, even under Indonesian rule, Oecussi-Ambeno was administered as part of the province of East Timor, just as it was as part of Portuguese Timor.

Consequently, it became part of the independent state of East Timor in 20 May 2002. Viqueque Viqueque is one of the districts of East Timor. Dili - Timor Leste | City of Darwin Dili Dili - Timor Leste Young Darwin Volunteers in Dili Person-to-person communication and exchange at the community level is a powerful tool for inspiring creativity, innovation and change. Matt and Brigid, young people from Darwin, found out first hand just how powerful exchange is when they undertook a 3 week volunteer placement in Dili, Timor-Leste. Matt and Brigid worked with local counterparts, Acio, Rui, Nata and Vero to assist with operations at the Action for Change Foundation (ACF) a youth training centre in Dili and long-term partner with City of Darwin.

"It is important for the organization’s development," said ACF Director, Jose de Jesus of the exchange, "Especially for a small organization like ACF, we need to increase public awareness and youth engagement through different activities like exchange of culture, working environment, friendship and equip the local staff to work in partnership with others." A number of the Timorese staff at ACF have been to Darwin on exchange with City of Darwin, this was the first time young people from Darwin had the opportunity to go to Dili. Matt and Brigid commented that they were constantly inspired by the staff and students at ACF and their ability to do so much for their community with so little. How do you run your city? City of Darwin continues to build relationships with the Dili District Administration, the local level of government in Dili, Timor-Leste. After undertaking 3 successful youth exchanges with a local NGO in Dili, City of Darwin decided to investigate capacity building initiatives at a local government officer level. The Secretary of State for State Administration, Dr Tomas Cabral highlighted on his visit to Darwin in 2014 that the way forward for Dili District Administration is to build capacity of their staff.

City of Darwin is pleased to be able to work in partnership with the Dili District and Central Government to provide skills building opportunities. City of Darwin will host two Council officers from Dili in October who will observe and visit Council operations include waste management, libraries and community development. Dili Choir Comes to Darwin Council supported the St. Cecilia Choir from Dili to travel to Darwin to perform the Messiah with the Darwin Chorale and Darwin Symphony Orchestra 7 - 8 December 2013. The Dili singers spent the entire year carefully learning all the music and lyrics of Handel's masterpiece. The choir made a special visit to Santa in the Mall where they got shoppers into the spirit of season with some Christmas carols. Dili relationship celebrates 10 years Council hosted representatives from the Central and Municipal government of Timor-Leste 23 – 26 September 2013 as part of celebrations for the 10 year anniversary of the Darwin and Dili Sister City relationship. His Excellency The Secretary of State for Decentralisation led the delegation of Timorese officials, which reviewed the current agreement, attended a Council meeting and participated in breifings on Animal Management, Waste Management and By-Laws.

The delegation concluded with a Lord Mayoral reception enabling our VIPs from Dili to celebrate with the Darwin community. Dili Youth in Darwin 3 April 2013, Council welcomed Acio and Rui , two youth from Action for Change Foundation (ACF) in Dili to Darwin for 3 weeks work experience with Council. Acio and Rui participated in National Youth Week events and activities as well as gaining insight into Council Libraries, Youth Services and Healthy Darwin. To learn a bit more about Acio and Rui, read their interview with GRINDOnline , see photos of their stay or visit the ACF website . Past Projects Thanks to funds from City of Darwin and the efforts of Action for Change Foundation (ACF) volunteers, teachers and students at The Training Centre now have a new Library and study area. This new resource complements the exisiting internet cafe and training rooms. The Library project not only provides a valuable resource for the youth of Dili but was a great bonding exercise for ACF staff and volunteers who can now take pride in a facility they created. Read more about the Library project here or check out the ACF website . Students of No.

3 School Tuana-Laran in Dili now have some where to play basketball. Thanks to Council, East Timorese Sunrise and the Dili Community, students can now exercise and play games on what was previously an empty block of land. Council's Dili Sister City Community Committee provided financial support to the development of basketball facilities at the No. 3 School Tuara-Laran in Timor-Leste. Chair of the Committee, Lynne Bigg, presented the first installment at an official meeting which involved all members of the community including government officials, the principal, parents and teachers. The entire community participates to foster greater commitment to the project. Committee member Leigh Gregory delivered the second installment and was able to get some photos of the newly built basketball courts. The East Timor Brothers United successfully hosted the Timor Cup in Darwin 27 December 2011 - 7 January 2012. The event brought together people across Australia and Timor-Leste in a celebration of Timorese culture and a love of soccer. The event gained great publicity nationally and internationally with SBS sports commentator Craig Foster covering the grand final and TVTL featuring it in their news coverage. Proudly supported by Council's Dili Sister Cities Committee.

On 12 August 2011, Lord Mayor hosted a welcome reception for Santa Cecilia de Balide and Coro Santo de Antonio de Motael choirs from Dili, Timor-Leste. The Choirs were visiting Darwin as part of Northern Voices , a Darwin Festival event featuring the sounds of Timor Leste, the Tiwi Islands, Africa, Indonesia, Greece, Australia and the Phillipines in a concert event that is as multicultural as Darwin itself. Watch the impromptu performance guests were treated to. Lord Mayor was invited to present team jerseys to the players of the Timor-Leste Crocs 10 August 2011. The Crocs, based in Dili, were stopping in Darwin en route to Sydney to compete in the Australian Football League International Cup. From 28 March until 13th April, City of Darwin hosted three representatives from Action for Change Foundation for a capacity building exchange . During their time in Darwin, the three young people undertook a range of work experience opportunities including working with Council's Libraries, Corrugated Iron Youth Arts, Red Cross Youth Services, Music NT and 32 Degrees.

The Dili delegation was also involved in the planning and running of the BIG GIG on April 8. Check out the photos to see what else they got up to. From the 4th to 8th of October 2010, City of Darwin Information Technology staff member, Mark Bradbury, went to Dili to help install 6 computers that had been donated by CoD. Despite electricity supply issues, the members of Action For Change Foundation, with direction from Mark were able to set up the computers with internet connection in their internet café. Read more about Action for Change on their blog or in their latest newsletter . To see pictures of the new internet café, click here . Background and History Dili is the capital of one of the world's newest nations, Timor-Leste, which emerged as an independent nation after years of violence following a vote for independence from Indonesia in August 1999. According to a report presented to the United Nations in 2006 about 183,200 East Timorese were killed or died between 1975 and 1999, under Indonesia's occupation of the former Portuguese colony.

The territory was under UN Administration until independence on 20 May 2002. The colourful and emotional celebrations that took place in Dili, on that day marked an official end to 450 years of foreign rule over the territory. Darwin's Lord Mayor, Mr Peter Adamson, was there to witness the historic event. As Dili's closest large neighbouring city, Darwin had been assisting Dili in many ways since violence broke out on 30 August 1999, both through Government and Non-Government organisational programs. Darwin had housed refugees, helped fund various projects and had been the source of numerous entrepreneurs and aid workers that spent time in Dili helping at ground level. In 2001, City of Darwin supplied equipment and expertise through staff exchange and training to help restore and maintain the playing surface and surrounding facilities of the Dili Oval and Stadium. Agreement was reached to develop a Sister City agreement after an original request from Mr Braz de Carvallo, Dili District Administrator, on 28 March 2002. It was suggested that a Sister City Agreement would formally recognise ties that exist between Darwin and Dili and provide a platform for the people of Dili to express their appreciation.

The Dili Sister City agreement was formally signed on 18 September 2003. Over the past few years numerous delegations both out bound and visiting have strengthened the Darwin/Dili relationship. Linkages with various youth projects, community development activities and material aid have been facilitated. There is a growing East Timorese community in Darwin and the Sister City arrangement can only further develop the cultural and economic ties that have been built during East Timor's recent history.

Question: Dili is the capital of which state that became independent on 20 May 2002?
Answer: East Timor