Overview of Timor-Leste

Profile

Timor-Leste is an island nation located in the Lesser Sunda Islands, consisting of coastal areas including the capital Dili and steep mountainous regions. After a long period of Portuguese colonial rule and Indonesian occupation, it gained independence in 2002. The official languages are Tetum and Portuguese, with Portuguese influence strongly present in culture, architecture, and cuisine. The population is approximately 1.4 million with a notably young demographic. The main industries are oil and gas from the Timor Sea and coffee cultivation, while tourism is growing in popularity among travelers seeking coral reefs, diving, and unique cultural experiences.

Official name: Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
Common name: Timor-Leste
Numeric code: 626
Alpha-3 code: TLS
Alpha-2 code: TL
Population: 1.4 million (2023)
Population density: approximately 90
Primary languages: Tetum, Portuguese
Major religions: Roman Catholic
National anthem: Pátria
Calling code: +670
Internet TLD: .tl

History

Gained independence in 2002 after Portuguese colonization and Indonesian occupation.

Portugal established colonial rule in the 16th century, and until the mid-20th century, the economy depended on exports of resources such as sandalwood. Following a declaration of independence in 1975, Indonesia militarily invaded and annexed it as the 27th province. After prolonged armed resistance and international condemnation, a UN-supervised referendum was held in 1999, resulting in overwhelming support for independence. Following UN transitional administration (UNTAET), full independence was achieved on May 20, 2002. Since then, the country has adopted a semi-presidential democratic system, engaging in nation-building and economic diversification through multiple government transitions.

Geography & climate

Mountain ranges run east-west with steep terrain where short torrents flow north-south to the sea. The north coast has developed coral reefs while the south coast has long sandy beaches.

Tropical monsoon climate (distinct dry and wet seasons)

Area: Asia / 14874 km²
Capital: Dili
Largest city: Dili
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Indonesia

Natural resources

oil, natural gas, sandalwood, gold, manganese, marble, coral reefs, abundant fishery resources, hydropower, solar power, coffee, honey, bamboo, limestone

Politics

Government: Semi-presidential republic

Economy

Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

GDP (nominal): 22 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 72 hundred million USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Tetum, Portuguese

Time zone: Timor-Leste Time (TLT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Tetum, Mambai, Makasae, Baikeno, Melanesian, Chinese, Indian, Fataluku

Life expectancy

approximately 70 years

Literacy rate

68%

National sports

football, Tifla (traditional martial art), basketball, boxing, sepak takraw