His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.
Left: His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta and the Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope MLA.
Left: His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta and the Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope MLA.
Group photo.
On Wednesday 23 June 2010, His Excellency Dr José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, joined the Chief Minister Jon Stanhope MLA, in planting a Melia azedarach, commonly known as a White cedar, in the Central Valley of the National Arboretum.
The White cedar joins a growing number of trees planted by visiting dignitaries and leaders from around the world and symbolises Canberra’s connection with each of the countries represented.
Our connection with Timor-Leste stretches back a long way. Australians still recall with gratitude the sacrifices of those East Timorese who protected Australian servicemen in World War 11.
This connection remains strong today in the form of the Friendship Agreement that exists between the city of Canberra and the district of Dili. An agreement that strives for continued friendship and mutual respect between the two communities, through the promotion of educational, cultural, economic, humanitarian and sporting links.
The planting of the White cedar, a tree native to Timor, symbolises that friendship.