DILI, 09 April 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta addressed the progress of Timor-Leste during the Academic Conference with the theme “National Reflection on the 50th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of Timor-Leste” held today at the UNTL Caicoli Campus Auditorium.
Speaking to reporters after the session, Ramos-Horta emphasized that Timor-Leste is now proud to be one of Asia’s strongest democracies, ranking among the global top 20 for press freedom alongside robust religious and academic liberties. He noted significant social improvements since 2002, including a rise in life expectancy from under 60 to approximately 70 years.
The President highlighted remarkable educational and healthcare advancements, pointing out that the country has expanded from a single university in 2002 to 18 institutions today, with thousands of students and a substantial increase in PhD holders. Similarly, the medical sector has grown from merely 19 doctors in 2002 to over a thousand professionals currently serving the nation. Ramos-Horta encouraged Timorese youth to pursue studies in science, technology, medicine, economics, business administration, digitalization, and artificial intelligence, which he considers essential for improving governance and productivity across various sectors.
In discussing economic development, President Ramos-Horta detailed ongoing investments in agriculture through technical support and financial loans for families willing to work in this vital sector. President also emphasized the importance of international partnerships, specifically highlighting collaboration with countries like India on digital payment systems as a crucial step toward modernization and economic growth.
Addressing criticisms comparing current progress to the Indonesian occupation period, the President firmly countered such narratives by outlining the substantial improvements across multiple sectors since independence. Ramos-Horta’s reflections at the conference underscored his administration’s commitment to continuing democratic, social, and technological advancement as Timor-Leste commemorates this historic milestone in its journey as an independent nation.
TATOLI
