UN ends East Timor peacekeeping mission
Asia
By
-
| Dec 31, 2012
The UN officially ends its peacekeeping operations in East Timor on Monday.
UN forces have been pulling out since October when East Timorese security forces took over responsibility for maintaining law and order.
The UN played a vital role in East Timor's independence by organising the 1999 referendum which ended Indonesia's 24-year occupation.
UN peacekeeping troops returned in 2006 after a failed military coup led to social and political instability.
Finn Reske-Nielsen, chief of the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (Unmit), said in a statement: "The Timorese people and its leaders have shown courage and unswerving resolve to overcome great challenges.
READ MORE
Why Mbadi wants IEBC to reduce Sh64b election budget
How Kenyans lost Sh10bn through shadowy investments
Kenyan startups outshine Africa with three major innovation wins
Why every Kenyan must protect their personal data
Konza inks deal with Moroccan firm to deliver AI certification
AG's office in the spot for hindering KenGen's cheaper power plan
Pesalink, PAPSS deal cuts currency barriers for Kenya cross-border payments
Manyanja Mall: Quickmart, Goodlife and Rubis among anchor tenants of Sh400 million mall
Econetix inaugural CORSIA deal channels carbon finance to Africa
Industry leaders push to accelerate social governance in brokerage
"Although there remains much work ahead, this is an historic moment in recognising the progress already made."
He said the withdrawal did not mark an end to the partnership between the UN and East Timor, as "challenges still remain".
The UN directly administered the country until 2002 when it formally became a nation.
An Australian-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) was also deployed in 2006 amid violence that forced thousands of people from their homes.
The ISF ended its mission last month.
Correspondents say that, as one of Asia's poorest nations, East Timor will rely on outside help for many years.
- BBC