DILI, 06 June 2025 (TATOLI) – President José Ramos-Horta extended his warmest congratulations to the Muslim community in Timor-Leste on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.
“On behalf of the people of Timor-Leste, I extend my warmest wishes to you all on this joyous occasion of Eid al-Adha 2025,” President Horta said in a statement.
Reflecting on the story of Prophet Ibrahim—whose profound willingness to sacrifice what was most precious to him embodies unwavering faith and devotion—the President underscored the lasting relevance of these values in today’s world. “This timeless narrative speaks to the very essence of our shared human experience—the call to place our trust in divine wisdom, to act with selflessness, and to demonstrate our commitment to the greater good of our community,” he said.
Horta said “True progress requires sacrifice, patience, and unwavering commitment to our shared values of compassion, justice, and mutual respect.”
President Horta also underscored the importance of human fraternity, a principle embraced in Timor-Leste’s multicultural and interfaith society. He referenced the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, affirming the country’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for all religions.
“Genuine peace can only be achieved when we recognize our fundamental interconnectedness as human beings, regardless of our religious or cultural differences,” he said.
Timor-Leste, a predominantly Catholic nation, has been widely praised for its religious tolerance and harmonious interfaith relations. President Horta emphasized that this harmony is a core national strength, especially as the country seeks to deepen international engagement and elevate its global standing. “The interfaith harmony we have cultivated serves as an example to other nations of how different communities can live together in peace and mutual respect,” Horta said.
President expressed his hopes that the festive occasion would bring joy, peace, and prosperity to Muslim families across the nation, while further uniting all Timorese under shared values of compassion, justice, and mutual respect.
“May it inspire us all to continue working together for a more just, compassionate, and prosperous Timor-Leste. Eid Mubarak to all our Muslim brothers and sisters!”
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is celebrated by Muslims worldwide and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
