The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has signed an historic agreement with Radio e Televisoa de Timor-Leste (RTTL).

The agreement between the two public broadcasters allows for increased content sharing and media development programs.

It recognises both organisations’ importance as cultural institutions and custodians of media archives, as well as the vital role they play in connecting and informing audiences and contributing to democracy.

RTTL President José Antonio Belo says, “This is an important moment for RTTL and ABC to cement the historic relationship and express our shared values. 

“RTTL is happy to build on the spirit of friendship and collaboration and, in particular, to learn from ABC as we establish our English news service and channel.”

ABC Managing Director David Anderson says, “The ABC is committed to working with RTTL, and the people of Timor-Leste, and to learning from each other as both organisations seek to better serve our audiences.”

The MOU builds upon an existing strong relationship between the ABC and RTTL.

ABC Radio Australia has been available to Timorese audiences via FM radio for many years and more recently, ABC International Services entered a content sharing agreement for the distribution of ABC Australia and ABC Education content on RTTL digital platforms.

Main picture:RTTL Technician Ximenes Babo showing ABC International Development representatives the control room.