DILI, 10 september 2021 (TATOLI)—Timor-Leste Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak expresses the deepest regret on the passing of former President of the Republic of Portugal Jorge Sampaio who died Friday at the age of 81.
“On behalf of the 8th Constitutional Government, my spouse and I extend my deepest condolences to the family, the people of Portugal on the passing of former President Jorge Sampaio,” Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak said in a statement released on Friday.
During his term as the president of Portugal between 1996 and 2006, the world recognized the repression from Indonesia, therefore Jorge Sampaio had involved in the International stage to express his supports to the Timorese people who fought for the right of legitimacy to secure independence from Indonesia.
consequently, Sampaio has been taking part in the History of East Timor, as the Statesman who contributed to the National Restoration of Independence also as the special guest and witness in the commemoration of independence day may, 20 2002 in Dili.
“Former President Sampaio was recognized by the world as an upstanding politician who defended democracy and fought for freedom, who is also considered as Timor-Leste dear friend,” PM said.
At the same time, the PM extended his deep sorrow to the wife of Sampaio, Maria José Rodrigues Ritta in the most difficult situation.
Sampaio had been in delicate health for several years and had been in hospital in Lisbon for the past two weeks and was confirmed dead with respiratory failure.
Sampaio Born in Lisbon in 1939 to a middle-class family, Jorge Sampaio first entered politics during his law studies.
With the death of Sampaio, Portugal Government observe three days of national mourning, when Portuguese flags on public buildings fly at half-staff, from Saturday.
Earlier in October 2016 Timor’s President who is also Timor-Leste Current Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak, awarded two Former Presidents of Portugal Mario Soares and Jorge Sampaio the ‘Order of Timor-Leste’ medal (Colar Ordem Timor-Leste) at a ceremony in Portugal for their contribution to the solidarity and the supports for the independence of Timor-Leste.
Jornalista : Antónia Gusmão
Editora : Julia Chatarina
Translator: José Belarmino De Sa
Editor: Nelia Borges Rosario
