Dili, May 21, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The President of the Republic has extended congratulations to the Government led by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão for the successful organization of the forum on maritime rights and the resolution of maritime border disputes. This was conveyed in his speech during the 23rd Anniversary Celebration of the Restoration of Independence of Timor-Leste, held on Tuesday at the Presidential Palace in Aitarak-Laran, Dili.
In his address, President José Ramos-Horta highlighted that the government also successfully hosted the Dili Dialogue Forum 2025 on Press Freedom and Artificial Intelligence in Timor-Leste, organized by the Timor-Leste Press Council (CI – acronym in Portuguese).
“I take this solemn moment to extend my congratulations to our government, especially Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, for successfully holding the Forum on Maritime Rights and for the achievements in resolving maritime border disputes, which brought together over 100 renowned figures with expertise in international and maritime law,” said President Ramos-Horta.
The President further emphasized the courage and vision required to address the challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence, social media, and digital democracy, reaffirming Timor-Leste’s commitment to a free, open, and forward-looking society.
“This forum served as a vital platform for reflection and sharing, bringing together national and international voices united in a common goal to ensure that technology serves humanity, that freedom of expression is protected, and that democracy continues to grow with responsibility and transparency. We also look forward to hosting the Regional Seminar on Decolonization, co-organized by the Government of Timor-Leste and the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization (C24),” the President added.
He stated that this important meeting first held in Dili, with participation from over 100 diplomats accredited to the UN Headquarters in New York, as well as diplomatic representatives from Pacific nations, honoring the event with their presence.
“The arrival of more than 100 diplomats in Timor-Leste is a source of pride and honor for us, reaffirming our constitutional commitment to the principles of self-determination and decolonization, which remain unresolved in many territories. These events take place at a particularly symbolic time, as we celebrate the 23rd Anniversary of the Restoration of our Independence,” stated the President.
He affirmed that the presence of these distinguished guests further reinforces international recognition of Timor-Leste’s journey and its active voice within the United Nations, particularly in promoting the rights of peoples still under colonial administration.
Elaborating further, the President said that Timor-Leste, as a nation that experienced its own decolonization process, welcomes this Pacific regional meeting in a spirit of solidarity, responsibility, and hope. Moreover, the event could contribute to strengthening global momentum for a world free from colonialism, where all peoples can fully exercise their rights to freedom, dignity, and self-determination.
Report : Nelfiano
Photo : PR Media Officer