DILI, 05 december 2023 (TATOLI) – The Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Francisco da Costa Monteiro, spoke on Monday at a training session for mediators and focal points in conflict prevention, held in Raerobo, Atabae Administrative Post, Bobonaro Municipality.
In his presentation, Minister Monteiro emphasized the importance of security, peace, and stability in attracting foreign investment, particularly in the oil and mineral sectors to stimulate the national economy.
Monteiro urged communities to think about the future of their children instead of getting involved in conflicts.
“It is essential to provide counseling to calm people down and make them understand that their future and that of their children is important. We must all work together to maintain peace and stability in the country to attract foreign investors to invest in this nation, especially in the key areas such as petroleum and so on,” said Minister Monteiro.
According to him, more investment in the country means more job creation for young people.
“When our people are unemployed, without economic activities, disputes can arise. If the economy and development go well, people, especially the youth, finding work in factories or at the LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) plants, refineries, and other occupations, can prevent unrest and conflict,” he explained.
Regarding the upcoming cessation of production from the Bayu Undan Field, the government is actively working to develop sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and the economy, including petroleum and minerals, which promise high and quick returns in the coming years.
Mediators and focal points will be stationed in each administrative post to work on community conflict prevention, with support from the PNTL, local authorities, and other entities.
“To bring the pipeline to Timor-Leste, Minister Monteiro said that his team is making continuous efforts, but conflicts must be avoided. When conflicts arise, everything becomes difficult and doesn’t go as planned. Therefore, conflict prevention in municipalities and administrative posts is crucial,” said Domingos de Carvalho, who is responsible for the training.
The training for mediators and focal points in conflict prevention, which began on november 15 and will conclude on december 15, aims to strengthen the system of community conflict prevention and resolution, and contribute to sustainable development.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
