My little girl asked me why the per capita income in East Timor is so low. How can I explain it clearly?

East Timor (also known as the Democratic Republic of East Timor) is a small country in Southeast Asia. It was once a colony of Portugal and a part of Indonesia, and declared its independence in 2002. East Timor's per capita income is very low for the following reasons:

1. Weak economic foundation: East Timor's economic foundation is relatively weak, mainly relying on agriculture, fisheries and simple handicrafts. The development level of these traditional economic sectors is relatively limited, resulting in a low overall economic level.

2. Insufficient infrastructure: East Timor lags behind in infrastructure construction and development, including transportation, communication and energy. This leads to the restriction of productivity and economic activities, thus affecting economic growth and per capita income level.

3. Long-term war and turmoil: East Timor has experienced long-term war and political turmoil in history, including separation from Portuguese colonial rule and conflict with Indonesia. These wars and upheavals have led to economic and social destruction and affected development and stability.

4. Low education level: The education level in Timor-Leste is relatively low, especially in rural areas. Education is an important way to improve human capital and create more employment opportunities. The low level of education limits people's ability to earn higher income.

5. Poverty and inequality: Timor-Leste faces serious poverty and income inequality. Poverty and inequality lead some people to live below the poverty line and cannot get enough income and resources to improve their lives.

Although East Timor faces many challenges, the international community and the East Timorese government have been working hard to improve the economic and social situation. By strengthening infrastructure construction, promoting education, attracting foreign investment and developing new economic sectors, East Timor can gradually raise its per capita income level and achieve more stable and sustained economic growth.