Dili, June 2, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, delivered a message to mark the celebration of International Children’s Day in Timor-Leste and around the world, celebrated on June 1, 2025.
He stated that on International Children’s Day, we celebrate the greatest treasures and the brightest hopes for a better tomorrow. Every child carries a light in their heart that will shape our nation and the world. By honoring this special day, we want every child in Timor-Leste to know their worth, their love, and the importance of their voice. From the southern to the northern coast, from rural villages to urban centers, every child deserves the opportunity to learn and to thrive with courage in their spirit.
“Our nation was born from the courage and sacrifices of those who believed in a better future. Today, that future belongs to you. You are the heirs of our independence, the guardians of our culture, and the architects of our future. Your education is not only your right, it is the foundation on which our nation will continue to build peace, prosperity, and progress,” declared President José Ramos-Horta.
He emphasized that investment in children must begin even before birth. We must support mothers during pregnancy with quality prenatal care, ensuring healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries. Our commitment extends to newborn care, promoting breastfeeding, and establishing strong early childhood programs. Access to clean water, good sanitation, and comprehensive preschool education lays the foundation for healthy development.
“Every child deserves protection from harm, quality health care and education, nutritious food, and the fundamental right to play and simply be a child. These are not privileges, but fundamental rights we must safeguard for every child in our nation. To our young people who are already showing leadership in our communities, learning new languages, engaging with technology, and connecting with the world while holding tightly to our Timorese values, you inspire us all. You prove that smallness in size does not limit the greatness of our dreams and achievements,” continued the President.
He called on all parents, teachers, and community leaders to renew their commitment to creating an environment where children can thrive. We must listen to their thoughts, support their aspirations, and ensure that every decision we make considers its impact on future generations.
“Together, we will build a Timor-Leste where every child can attend school, feel safe, grow without limits, and know that they hold an important place in our national story. This means investing in maternal health clinics, expanding early childhood education centers, improving water and sanitation infrastructure, and ensuring that every child receives proper nutrition from day one,” stated President José Ramos-Horta.
He said, “to all children, you are not only the leaders of tomorrow, you are important today. Your curiosity, joy, questions, and dreams matter. Keep learning, keep asking questions, keep believing in yourselves, and never forget that you have the power to make the world a better place.”
He concluded with a reminder that International Children’s Day is a time for all of us to reflect on the importance of investing in children, from prenatal care to early education, as an investment in peace, prosperity, and a brighter future for our beloved homeland, Timor-Leste.
Report: Domingas
Photo: Media Officer PR