DILI, 20 august 2024 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste commemorated the 49th anniversary of Timorese National Defense Force (F-FDTL) in Dili. The Timorese Armed Forces, accompanied by the President of the Republic, members of the Government, and the Timorese people, commemorated the anniversary of the F-FDTL with pride and patriotism.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Republic (PR), José Ramos Horta, acknowledged the crucial role of the Armed Forces in ensuring peace and stability in the country.
Horta said that celebrating the F-FDTL’s anniversary is an opportunity to honor and remember the twenty-four years of struggle for national liberation and the twenty-five years of peace-building, national development, and strengthening of the Democratic Rule of Law.
“We pay tribute to the martyrs and heroes who sacrificed their lives so that Timor-Leste could rise as a free and independent nation. Among these, we remember with deep respect Nicolau Lobato, whose legacy as a resistance leader continues to illuminate our path. His leadership and sacrifice are sources of continuous inspiration in our struggle for justice and the well-being of all Timorese,” Horta said in a statement.
The Chief of Staff of the Timorese National Defense Force (F-FDTL), Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, said that the principles and values of the F-FDTL are based on the quality of the National Liberation Fighters.
Falur Rate Laek praised the Timorese armed forces who continue to follow in the footsteps of their departed predecessors and some who still proudly serve the F-FDTL.
“As Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, I commend the good work that our armed forces are doing and I affirm that the F-FDTL is willing to be part of the solutions to all the challenges facing our society, our government,” he said.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
