Local Bilateral Relationship Overview

The United States and Timor-Leste enjoy positive relations as two democracies with shared interests in promoting rule of law and human rights.  The United States also provides important assistance through USAID and other programs that help Timor-Leste develop its democratic institutions, diversify its economy, and enhance security capacity.

The United States established diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste at independence on May 20, 2002.  Since then, the United States has provided more than $500 million in bilateral assistance.  U.S. agencies present in Timor-Leste include the Departments of State, Defense, and Justice, USAID, and Peace Corps.  The current Ambassador is Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick, who was preceded by Ambassadors Karen Stanton, Judith Fergin, Hans Klemm, and Grover Rees III.