India has sent 10,000 doses of rabies vaccine and 2,000 vials of rabies immunoglobulin to Timor-Leste to support its health response. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said this aid reflects India’s role as a reliable “First Responder” to the Global South.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India remains committed to assisting partner nations in times of crisis. He highlighted that the consignment will help Timor-Leste combat a recent rabies outbreak, reinforcing India’s commitment to global health cooperation and solidarity.
India and Timor-Leste share long-standing ties rooted in democracy and diversity. India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste after its independence in 2002. Recently, Timor-Leste became the 11th member of ASEAN, marking a historic step in regional integration and cooperation.
President Droupadi Murmu earlier reaffirmed India’s partnership with Timor-Leste, promising collaboration in technology, agriculture, and healthcare. Timor-Leste’s leadership expressed gratitude for India’s support and backed India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, strengthening their growing diplomatic bond.
