Timor-Leste's Successful Democracy and China's Military Cooperation

Timor-Leste has successfully established a vibrant democracy despite being resource-rich, thanks to its deep roots in political parties and a semi-presidential system. The nation has managed to avoid the political resource curse and maintain political institutions that are not winner-take-all. China's military cooperation with East Timor is denied by the president, and the two countries have upgraded bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, potentially increasing China's influence in the region.