DILI, 20 june 2023 (TATOLI) – The representative of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Timor-Leste, Sunil Mitra, was awarded the Order of Timor-Leste by the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, in recognition of his remarkable contribution to the country’s national development in various sectors during his four-year mandate, starting in 2019.
Timor-Leste was able to overcome several challenges and achieve some successes due to the contribution and dedication of Sunil Mitra.
“I just received a medal and I received it on behalf of ADB. So I want to thank the people of Timor-Leste and my colleagues who worked with us tirelessly, especially during the historic floods and the Covid-19 pandemic, and even then we managed to do the development project with the people of Timor-Leste,” Mitra told reporters after being awarded one of the country’s highest honors at the Presidential Palace, on Monday.
Mitra will leave Timor-Leste in a few days: “It is a mixed feeling. A feeling of happiness, gratitude, and a bit of emotion. And I am sure that there will be more progress in Timor-Leste in the coming days.”
“I thank the President of the Republic and also the people of Timor-Leste for this honor and again I received it on behalf of my organization, the Asian Development Bank (ADB),” Mitra said.
He hoped that his successor, who will arrive in a few months, would work closely with the Timorese Government, as well as with relevant organizations, to contribute to the country’s development.
The Order of Timor-Leste is the highest honor currently awarded by Timor-Leste which was established in 2009.
The Order of Timor-Leste is awarded to recognize and thank those individuals who have made a significant contribution to the benefit of the Timorese people.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges