DILI, 10 April 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s President, José Ramos-Horta, presented Certificates of Recognition to 66 doctors from the Cuban Medical Brigade who are concluding their two-year mission in Timor-Leste. The ceremony was held at Galeria Memória Viva in Farol, Dili.
The award ceremony recognized the exceptional service of these healthcare professionals who have provided specialized medical care across all municipalities of Timor-Leste since 2023. Their contributions extend beyond direct patient care to include vital training of Timorese doctors, nurses, and technicians in various health establishments and at the Faculty of Medicine of the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL).
Horta expressed the nation’s profound gratitude: “Today, we recognize not just skilled medical professionals, but true friends of Timor-Leste who have demonstrated the highest ideals of international solidarity. These 66 doctors have strengthened our healthcare system, saved countless lives, and transferred invaluable knowledge to our medical professionals. Their dedication in serving our most remote communities represents the enduring friendship between Cuba and Timor-Leste.”
The ceremony marks another successful chapter in the ongoing healthcare cooperation agreement between Timor-Leste and Cuba, which has been instrumental in developing Timor-Leste’s medical infrastructure and capabilities.
The event was attended by Health Minister Élia Amaral, Cuban Ambassador to Timor-Leste Grisel Alina Aldama Inniss, and senior management from the Guido Valadares National Hospital (HNGV).
Meanwhile, the Cuban Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Grisel Innis, stated that Cuban doctors had voluntarily traveled to various parts of the country to provide assistance and medical care to the Timorese people.
Innis recalled that the Cuban doctors have so far provided medical assistance to around 15,583 patients, adding that they have supported 108,774 natural childbirths, assisted in 13,662 cesarean deliveries, and participated in 159,735 other surgeries.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
