DILI, 28 november 2023 (TATOTOLI) – At the celebration of the 48th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s Proclamation of Independence Day, the President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta called for forging new paths to independence in various spheres.
“In agriculture, we are called to emancipate ourselves from limitations by embracing sustainable practices and technological innovations. The land we cultivate is not just soil, but the foundation of our food security and economic prosperity. Likewise, our seas and forests require wise and balanced management to preserve the natural wealth we have inherited,” said Horta in his speech.
He said the quest for independence in industry and energy is crucial, stating therefore, Timor-Leste must leverage green and renewable energies, not just as an environmental commitment, but as an energy empowerment strategy: “Our oil and mineral resources, gifts from our land, need to be exploited and transformed in a sustainable way, guaranteeing lasting benefits for our people.”
President also raise the importance of water management in the county: “Water, the essence of life, must be managed wisely. Our independence is not complete if we cannot guarantee fair and sustainable access to water for all. This is a challenge we embrace with determination, recognizing that the efficient management of this resource is a prerequisite for our development.”
The Head of State said that as the country moving towards membership of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO), it is facing a new frontier of independence – regional integration: “We must position ourselves as active members of the global community, sharing and absorbing knowledge, participating in strategic partnerships, and building bridges that connect us to the world.”
According to Horta, the true essence of the proclamation of independence lies in youth – the vital force that will drive Timor-Leste’s future.
“We are heirs to the legacy built by past youths, and now, in a dynamic and complex world, it is up to the new generations to lead. You are the architects of tomorrow, guided by technical and scientific knowledge that will shape the energy transition, open doors to sustainable economic cooperation, and exploit the vast opportunities that lie ahead,” he said.
Horta stressed that Timor-Leste must adopt a comprehensive and inclusive approach, adding investing in education is investing in the future: “We must ensure that every child has access to quality education, empowering them to face the challenges of the 21st century and contribute to sustainable development.”
He said that maternal and child malnutrition is a significant barrier to progress, urging the government to implement policies and programs that guarantee food security, encourage sustainable agricultural practices, and promote access to nutritious food.
The Head of State called for the creation of job opportunities, especially for young people, which is key to ensuring a smooth generational transition and strengthening the foundations of the country’s development: “Supporting entrepreneurship, promoting strategic sectors and developing skills are key to this process.”
President Horta said that to fulfill ASEAN’s expectations and obligations, the country needs to strengthen its infrastructure. He said that building facilities capable of receiving dignitaries, delegations, and experts is essential: “This improvement not only enhances our service and hospitality capacity but also has positive implications for the service sector, including hotels, restaurants, transport, and communications.”
He added building a more integrated Timor-Leste in the international community requires investment in digital infrastructure, efficient telecommunications, and modern transport services.
Journalist: Camilo de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
