DILI, 28 august 2024 (TATOLI) – Timor – Leste through the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, has decorated the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, with the Collar of the Order of Timor – Leste , in recognition of his contribution to the country’s self-determination and independence.
“The Secretary General, António Guterres, as Prime Minister of Portugal in 1999, supported the self-determination and independence of Timor – Leste and, therefore, we must recognize his contribution to the Timorese people,’ said the Head of State at a press conference in the Palace Presidential Bairo- Pite Dili.
According to a presidential source, António Guterres was ‘a prominent defender of the Timorese people’s right to self-determination and independence, playing a key role in resolving the country’s issue’.
According to the Presidency of the Republic’s agenda, two Portuguese journalists from Rádio Renascença, José Luís Ramos Pinheiro and Pedro Mesquita, will also be honored on 30 of August. This distinction is a public expression of the deep appreciation and gratitude of the Timorese people, as well as a demonstration of the personal recognition of the President of the Republic José Ramos Horta.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
