DILI, 06 november 2024 (TATOLI) – The IX Constitutional Government presented to the National Parliament the Draft Law on the General State Budget (GSB) for the year 2025, under the theme “Investment in Strategic Infrastructures, Strengthening the Economy and Improving the Welfare of Citizens”. With a total budget of 2.617 billion US dollars, the government reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development and improving the living conditions of all Timorese.
In his speech, the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, emphasized that the GSB 2025 is “more than a mere collection of figures and allocation of funds: it is a declaration of intent; a bold vision for the future; and a concrete roadmap for facing the challenges and taking advantage of the opportunities.” With this proposal, the government wants to ensure that all citizens, “regardless of where they live or their social position”, enjoy the “fruits of growth and development”. “This is a budget for the people and by the people,” said the Prime Minister.
Referring to the global context, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão stressed that in the face of “unprecedented uncertainties”, the “Government has drawn up a budget that takes into account the needs of the people, also in this context of vulnerability to external factors”, and that does not focus “only on immediate recovery, but also on building resilient policies and measures that will allow Timor-Leste to prosper in the long term.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of investing in productive sectors, such as infrastructure, education, health, social and environmental protection, and the oil sector, stressing that “these are the pillars in which we will build a prosperous and just society”. Among the main areas of investment, the Prime Minister highlighted the strengthening of strategic infrastructure, with an allocation of US$654, emphasizing that these funds “are not limited to building roads and bridges – they are intended to connect our people, enable trade and promote opportunities.”
The Head of Government also stressed the importance of sustainable water management and environmental protection, particularly in urban areas. “The government has committed a total of 26 million dollars to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene initiatives in various municipalities, with a focus on infrastructure development and maintenance,” he stressed. Another important point in the budget is the investment in improving the internet connection, with a sum of “US$2.5 million for the fiber optic installation project and US$5 million for its management”, as well as the “approval of licenses for internet services” which, according to the Prime Minister, will allow “the improvement of economic indicators and the development of new industries that would previously have been impossible.”
Addressing the issue of economic development, the Prime Minister emphasized support for the private sector, especially agriculture and small and medium-sized enterprises, stating that “we know that true economic strength comes from within and we are committed to developing local industries that can stand the test of time.” To this end, US$40.8 million have been allocated to stimulate productive sectors such as agriculture, fishing and livestock, with the aim of “increasing local production, reducing dependence on imports and promoting innovation.”
Regarding the oil and natural resources sector, the Prime Minister revealed an investment of US$40.5 million, with an additional US$12 million going towards the development of the Greater Sunrise project. “We can’t stop betting on the resources that nature has placed at our disposal so that we can grow and prosper,” he said.
In the area of education, considered by Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão to be “the great equalizer”, the budget includes US$145.8 million for educational infrastructure, teacher training and improving the education management system, as well as US$17.2 million for scholarships. “We are preparing the next generation of Timorese leaders, innovators and change agents,” he said, adding that ”the success of our nation rests on the shoulders of our young people and we are committed to giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to good governance and transparency, guaranteeing that the government will “ensure that public funds are managed with maximum transparency and accountability.” He referred to the need to implement stronger public finance management systems, strengthen internal audit mechanisms and fight corruption. “Corruption and mismanagement have no place in Timor-Leste’s future,” he stressed.
Finally, the Head of Government stressed that “this budget represents a turning point for our nation. It is about investing in our future, about ensuring that Timor-Leste emerges from the challenges we face today as a stronger, more united and more prosperous country.”
Gusmão concluded his speech with a call for national unity, stating that “as we face global and internal challenges, we must remember that our strength lies in our unity and resilience” and “together, we will do everything we can to build that future – a future built on foundations of social justice, stability and mutual trust”.
The general discussion and vote on the State Budget will take place until november 8, with the special analysis and final vote scheduled for november 11-25.
TATOLI
