Baucau – July 24, 2023 – U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley joined F-FDTL General Commander Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, U.S. Army Pacific Deputy Commanding General Major General Reginald Neal and local authorities opened the Third “Dalan Ba Dame” (Path to Peace) Exercise, a bilateral military exercise aiming to strengthen cooperation and friendship between the United States and Timor-Leste armed forces.
The Rhode Island National Guard will participate in the exercise for the first time, building on the State Partnership Program recently signed between Timor-Leste and Rhode Island. Over the next two weeks, members of the two-armed forces will develop relationships and sharpen their skills in medical care, land navigation, small unit tactics, and engineering.
The “Dalan ba Dame” exercise is a testament to the enduring friendship, partnership, and opportunities that arise when nations come together for a common purpose. Together, the United States and Timor-Leste will continue to work together, sharing expertise and resources to address common challenges and promote regional stability.
“We hope that we not only strengthen our militaries, but also our ability to work together and provide ways to improve the lives of the Timorese people,” said Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley in his opening remarks. “For the first time the Rhode Island National Guard is participating in this exercise, creating more opportunities for future collaboration.”
This milestone marks the continued progress since the inaugural “Dalan ba Dame” Exercise, reflecting the shared commitment to defending the ideals of freedom and democracy, as well as promoting global peace. This exercise will build the capacity of both forces and ensure a brighter future for the Timorese and American people.
In June 2023, the U.S. Air Force delivered F-FDTL’s first Cessna and ISR System to enhance Timor-Leste’s defense forces’ maritime surveillance capabilities, ensuring the protection of territorial waters, and safeguarding vital maritime resources. The United States is proud to partner with Timor-Leste, while underlining its commitment to supporting the nation’s sovereignty, security, and prosperity.
