​​​​Lost Paradises Travels - Asia

EAST TIMOR - TIMOR-LESTE

Dili

East Timor or Timor-Leste is a sovereign state in Maritime Southeast Asia. The country's size is about 15,410 km2 (5,400 sq mi). Timor-Leste was colonised by Portugal in the 16th century, and was known as Portuguese Timor until 28 November 1975, when the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor declared the territory's independence. Nine days later, it was invaded and occupied by Indonesia which own the west part of Timor island. This occupation  of East Timor was characterised by a highly violent decades-long conflict between separatist groups and the Indonesian military.
In 1999, following the United Nations-sponsored act of self-determination, Indonesia relinquished control of the territory. East Timor became the first new sovereign state of the 21st century on 20 May 2002 with Dili as the capital city, largest city, main port and commercial centre.