DILI, 05 april 2024 (TATOLI) – In his regular meeting with the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, on thursday, the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, emphasised the importance of strengthening security ahead of the papal visit scheduled for august this year.
During the meeting, President Horta expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister for helping to restore a calmer situation in the country during Holy Week, as the situation was somewhat different before Easter due to some conflicts between youth groups in Dili.
In response to Horta’s concern, Prime Minister Gusmão said that he had ordered the government to extend the suspension of martial arts activities in the country, stating that it was not a punishment but to prevent some students from getting involved in street fights due to tensions between different martial arts groups.
However, Gusmão said that the government plans to organize competitions for the martial arts groups to change youth mentality in a more positive direction.
The Prime Minister encouraged the country’s young generation to get involved in positive actions that can contribute to Timor-Leste’s development.
Meanwhile, the Commander General of the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL), Henrique da Costa, and the Chief of Staff of FALINTIL – Timor-Leste Defence Forces, Falur Rate Laek, also met this week to discuss the joint security plan for Pope Francis’ visit.
Hundreds of F-FDTL officers will be deployed in Timor-Leste’s capital, joining PNTL officers to ensure security during Pope Francis’ visit to the country.
According to Henrique da Costa, the Ministry of the Interior has instructed the Armed Forces and PNTL to define the strategic guidelines needed to coordinate the actions and security measures for the papal visit: “We are ready to guarantee the safety of His Holiness and everyone taking part in the event.”
The government has authorized the expenditure of up to US$12 million from the Contingency Fund for the High-Level Institutional Coordinating Committee to organize activities in preparation for the papal visit.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
