U.S. Embassy Dili welcomed the visit of General Steven S. Nordhaus, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, to Timor-Leste. General Nordhaus’s visit highlights the importance of ongoing U.S.-Timor-Leste defense collaboration and the shared vision of a secure and prosperous future.
During his visit, General Nordhaus engaged in high-level discussions with President José Ramos-Horta, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, Minister of Defense Donaciano do Rosário Gomes, and Vice Chief of Defense Major General Calisto dos Santos Coliati. The meetings, conducted within the framework of the State Partnership Program, underscore the United States' enduring commitment to strengthening security ties with Timor-Leste. The discussions focused on deepening bilateral military cooperation, enhancing defense capabilities, and facilitating the exchange of strategic expertise to support regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
General Nordhaus will also attend the April 4 official handover ceremony of the Aircraft Hangar and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Warehouse to the F-FDTL Air Component in Baucau. The ceremony marks a significant milestone in the U.S.-Timor-Leste defense partnership, and the new facilities will enhance the F-FDTL’s disaster response and operational readiness, reinforcing Timor-Leste’s resilience and security.
This high-level visit reaffirms the strong and growing partnership between the United States and Timor-Leste, reflecting a shared commitment to defense cooperation, regional stability, and long-term collaboration.