Exchange Programs of Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Training Squadron in Dili

 Japan Maritime Self Defense Force training squadron consisting of training vessels “Kashima” and “Setoyuki” visited Dili, Timor-Leste, from July 3rd to 5th. Because of the emergency situation due to COVID-19 pandemic, all exchange programs were carried out on line. This visit was the first in history and consolidated the existing defense cooperation as well as bilateral friendship between two countries for years to come. 
 Program for the squadron’s visit included an on-line curtesy call on H.E. Lieutenant General Lere Anan Timur, Chief of Timor-Leste Defense Force (FALINTIL-FDTL) by Rear Admiral Yoshikazu Ishimaki, Commander of the Training Squadron on the morning of July 4th. Rear Admiral Ishimaki also delivered an on-line lecture on Japan’s maritime defense policy for young members of F-FDTL, reciprocating an on-line lecture by Captain (Navy) Higino das Neves, Head of the Military Strategic Planning and Director of the National Maritime Authority, Ministry of Defense, for the training officers of the squadron.

 In the afternoon, an on-line friendship exchange session was held between the squadron and Timorese Alumni of National Defense Academy of Japan who are now serving in F-FDTL. 
 The exchange session was followed by a reception to celebrate the visit of the squadron. Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Lieutenant General Lere Anan Timur, Rear Admiral Yoshikazu Ishimaki (Commander of JMSDF Training Squadron on-line), Mr. Abel Pires, the Chairman of Timor-Leste Japan Parliamentarians' Friendship League, and representatives of this league, Military Attaches of all Embassies and Timorese Alumni of National Defense Academy of Japan. 
 
 The Training Squadron left Dili on the morning of July 5th to head to the next stop, Dabao in the Philippines.