USARPAC steps up strategic engagement in Timor-Leste to bolster regional partnerships

Maj. Gen. Lance A. Okamura, the U.S. Army Pacific deputy commanding general for homeland affairs, visited Timor-Leste from July 28–30 to conduct key leader engagements aimed at strengthening regional partnerships.

The trip focused on building enduring land force ties with the Forces for Defense of Timor-Leste and assessing opportunities to align future U.S. Army Pacific activities, including Exercise DALAN BA DAME, with Timor-Leste’s priorities.

Against an evolving Indo-Pacific security backdrop, robust military-to-military ties are being emphasized as vital to advancing stability, interoperability, and mutual understanding.

A central element of the visit involved consultations with the U.S. Embassy Country Team and allied diplomatic representatives from Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

Okamura also met with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bruce Begnell, Deputy Chief of Mission Charlette Betts, Military Group Chief Maj. Villareal, and other members of the U.S. Embassy Country Team to explore ways to further strengthen partnerships.

The engagements highlighted U.S. Army Pacific’s commitment to trusted partnerships, enhanced regional cooperation, and support for a free and open Indo-Pacific through sustained collaboration with allies and partners.