In a candid interview with Al Jazeera's Ali MC, Jose Ramos-Horta, East Timor's President since 2017, weighed in on recent developments in Gaza and the West. The longtime independence advocate expressed deep disappointment in what he views as hypocritical Western actions regarding Israel's treatment of Palestinians.
The interview took place during the 50th anniversary of Indonesia's invasion of East Timor, a period marked by Ramos-Horta’s tireless advocacy for his country's independence from Indonesia, backed up by international recognition and support. Despite unanimous UN support, Indonesia invaded on December 7, 1975, silencing media coverage and resulting in an estimated 200,000 deaths.
Ramos-Horta described the challenges he faced as a representative of East Timor, noting that they were met with skepticism due to the Cold War context and US support for Indonesia. He highlighted how this situation was exacerbated by Western complicity in blocking news out of East Timor, leading to a severe lack of media coverage.
As Ramos-Horta reflected on his role as an ambassador, he explained that showing sympathy towards marginalized groups is essential. However, he also pointed out that the international community often fails to live up to its promises, particularly when it comes to supporting poorer countries in their fight against poverty.
On a more positive note, Ramos-Horta spoke about the progress made by East Timor since gaining independence in 2002. He highlighted the country's peaceful transition from conflict to reconciliation and praised his own role as President.
Regarding East Timor’s upcoming membership of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Ramos-Horta emphasized the benefits this will bring, including greater economic opportunities and improved living standards for its people.
China is another key aspect that Ramos-Horta discussed. He made it clear that East Timor does not view China as an enemy, unlike some in America who are unable to accept China's rise as a global superpower.
Finally, Ramos-Horta spoke about the potential economic benefits of the Greater Sunrise Gas Field project for East Timor. According to existing studies, the project is expected to deliver gas and revenue to Timor-Leste within seven years of its completion. However, significant investments will need to be made beforehand to build infrastructure on the south coast.
Throughout the interview, Ramos-Horta demonstrated his commitment to fighting injustice and promoting human rights, even in the face of hypocrisy from Western powers.
The interview took place during the 50th anniversary of Indonesia's invasion of East Timor, a period marked by Ramos-Horta’s tireless advocacy for his country's independence from Indonesia, backed up by international recognition and support. Despite unanimous UN support, Indonesia invaded on December 7, 1975, silencing media coverage and resulting in an estimated 200,000 deaths.
Ramos-Horta described the challenges he faced as a representative of East Timor, noting that they were met with skepticism due to the Cold War context and US support for Indonesia. He highlighted how this situation was exacerbated by Western complicity in blocking news out of East Timor, leading to a severe lack of media coverage.
As Ramos-Horta reflected on his role as an ambassador, he explained that showing sympathy towards marginalized groups is essential. However, he also pointed out that the international community often fails to live up to its promises, particularly when it comes to supporting poorer countries in their fight against poverty.
On a more positive note, Ramos-Horta spoke about the progress made by East Timor since gaining independence in 2002. He highlighted the country's peaceful transition from conflict to reconciliation and praised his own role as President.
Regarding East Timor’s upcoming membership of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Ramos-Horta emphasized the benefits this will bring, including greater economic opportunities and improved living standards for its people.
China is another key aspect that Ramos-Horta discussed. He made it clear that East Timor does not view China as an enemy, unlike some in America who are unable to accept China's rise as a global superpower.
Finally, Ramos-Horta spoke about the potential economic benefits of the Greater Sunrise Gas Field project for East Timor. According to existing studies, the project is expected to deliver gas and revenue to Timor-Leste within seven years of its completion. However, significant investments will need to be made beforehand to build infrastructure on the south coast.
Throughout the interview, Ramos-Horta demonstrated his commitment to fighting injustice and promoting human rights, even in the face of hypocrisy from Western powers.
. I mean, it's like the West is all upset about Israel's actions, but they've been quiet when it comes to Indonesia's brutal invasion of East Timor back in the 70s... that was some serious hypocrisy right there 
. Ramos-Horta makes a solid point though, we gotta acknowledge our own complicity in situations like this and not just point fingers at others. And I'm glad he brought up East Timor's progress - it's amazing to see how far they've come since gaining independence 
. The ASEAN membership will definitely bring some economic benefits, but we gotta make sure those don't just line the pockets of corrupt officials 
. And China... well, I think Ramos-Horta is right that East Timor doesn't have to be enemies with them 
. We need more leaders like him who can navigate these complex global issues without getting caught up in politics 
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. It's super unfair that Western countries are acting all hypocritical about it. I mean, they're quick to point fingers at others for not doing enough, but when it comes to standing up for what's right, they kinda fall short. East Timor's situation is a perfect example of that – the world knew about the invasion and the human rights abuses, but nobody did much to stop it 
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. He's still pushing for justice and equality, even if it means going against the status quo. And I'm all for that! It takes courage to speak truth to power and stand up for what's right, especially when it's hard. East Timor's progress since gaining independence is definitely something to be proud of – who wouldn't want a peaceful transition from conflict to reconciliation? 
. He knows how to play the diplomatic game, but he's not afraid to speak his mind and stand up for East Timor's interests. Bring it on, I say! 
. Ramos-Horta's got more guts than a butcher's shop (in a good way, obvi). Like, who else is gonna call out Western powers for being hypocrites when they can't even get their own acts together? 
East Timor's progress since independence is actually kinda inspiring - maybe we should all try to be more like them: peaceful and stuff. And China? More like 'China, you're a cool dude' 
Anyway, I do love how Ramos-Horta is all about promoting human rights and fighting injustice – that's some serious hero vibes 
Oh wait, I forgot, America's always good at finding enemies where there aren't any 
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The whole thing is just so frustrating...
it's crazy how the world can turn a blind eye to such atrocities. As a parent, I just wish there was more empathy and understanding towards these kinds of situations, especially when it comes to children who are already struggling to survive 
. It's not right that Western powers were so quick to side with Indonesia over East Timor's rights for independence 
. And I love that he's not letting Western politics get in the way of promoting peace and understanding between nations 
. As a parent, I just wish more leaders had his kind of heart 
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. How does Ramos-Horta plan to mitigate the risks of losing East Timor's sovereignty in exchange for "greater economic opportunities"?
. What's the real story behind this deal? Is it really going to benefit East Timor, or is it just another way for bigger powers to exploit their resources?