Deployment to Timor-Leste

A 62-strong New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) contingent has left for a six-month deployment to Timor-Leste to support the Australian-led International Stabilization Force (ISF) in the country. The NZDF has supported various peacekeeping operations in Timor-Leste since 1999, when a referendum was held on independence from Indonesia, sparking violence. As part of a planned drawdown, brought about by the improving security situation in Timor-Leste, the NZDF’s contribution was reduced from 14 to 75 personnel in May 21.