East Timor looks set to join Lomé

Date: 28/10/1999

By Shada Islam

EAST Timor looks set to become the first Asian country to join the trade and aid agreement linking the EU to 71 African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries.

The move would make the violence-wrecked territory eligible for millions of euro in reconstruction and rehabilitation aid, and create a strong institutional link between the former Portuguese colony and the Union.

Discussions on East Timor's entry into the Lomé Convention have yet to begin in the Commission, but officials say “everyone is thinking about the option”. They add that while Asian nations are not eligible to join the convention, East Timor could be regarded as part of the Pacific region.

Portugal clearly favours the move, and it won the support of EU and ACP parliamentarians meeting in the Bahamas earlier this month. But under Lomé Convention rules, East Timor's accession would have to be agreed by ACP governments.

East Timor's entry into the Lomé partnership would only be possible once the territory, currently under a United Nations interim administration, becomes independent after a period of two to three years.

EU officials say that joining the Lomé agreement appears to offer the best solution for a territory which will require millions of euro in foreign aid in the coming years.

A detailed evaluation of East Timor's development needs is being undertaken by a World Bank team including an EU expert. Development Commissioner Poul Nielson is expected to visit the territory in mid-November.

The priority for the moment continues to be the provision of humanitarian assistance, including medical aid, to the thousands of people made homeless after pro-Indonesian militia went on the rampage following the 30 August vote for independence in East Timor.