Government expresses condolences over Keith Hayes death

MIL OSI-C. Melanesia: East Timor Portuguese to English –

The presidency of the Council of Ministers

VIII Constitutional Government

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Press release

Government expresses condolences for the death of Keith Hayes

It was with great regret that the Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste received the news of the death of Mr. Keith Hayes, an australian veteran and survivor of the 2nd World War.

Keith Hayes, after you have been injured in the battle in Timor-Leste during the 2nd World War, was rescued by a timorese family, marking the beginning of a great friendship with our people which lasted for the rest of your life.

In addition to Keith have shown a remarkable courage as a command during the war, when I returned to Australia continued to fight. It was with deep empathy and concern that has actively supported the east timorese people, including in our struggle for freedom and independence, as well as our efforts to develop our new nation. This lifetime support was a bright light in the relationship between our countries and showed us all the possibilities of solidarity between our peoples. We kept the friendship in our hearts, and we regret the death of an australian really great.

Keith will always have an important place in the history of our country and of our relationship with Australia. Although he was humble and unpretentious, his courage, integrity and determination to fight for human dignity and by the timorese people will not be forgotten. In this time of sorrow, we regret his death, but we celebrate their contribution.

The Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, on behalf of the Timorese People, sends condolences to the family of Keith Hayes and the thanks of a grateful nation. END

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is a translation. Please forgive us if the grammar and / or sentence structure is not perfect.