DILI, 30 June 2025 (TATOLI) – President José Ramos-Horta has expressed his deep condolences on the passing of Fausto Belo Ximenes, affectionately known as “Nino,” a distinguished Timorese development leader and advocate whose life and career inspired many across Timor-Leste and beyond.
In a statement, President Horta reflected on Nino’s enduring legacy as a symbol of ambition, resilience, and service to the nation.
“Nino exemplified this spirit of ambition and dedication. A young Timorese man who pursued his dreams with remarkable determination, Nino became an inspiration to his peers and countless others in our community. His recent passing has deeply saddened all of us,” Horta said in a statement.
Fausto Belo Ximenes “Nino” is honored to be the first Timorese to participate in the prestigious Maurice R. Greenberg World Fellows Program at Yale University.
During his remarkable career as Country Director of Oxfam International in Timor-Leste, he advocated for climate justice, gender equality, inclusive economic development, and civic participation. His work comes from valuable international experience with the United Nations Development Program and the University of Oxford, supported by numerous academic achievements including a bachelor’s degree from Stony Brooke University and his master’s degree at the University of Oxford and master’s degree at University of Roehampton as recipient of Erasmus Mundus.
His recognition through the US Department of State’s East West Center Scholarship and the Transitional Justice Scholarship demonstrates the international community’s recognition of his potential and commitment to development, human rights and justice.
“As we mourn his passing, we must also celebrate Nino’s legacy. His life serves as a powerful reminder that being from our small island nation should never limit our aspirations. His journey demonstrates that we can dream big, grow beyond our borders, and pursue our ambitions on the global stage while contributing to our homeland’s progress,” said President Horta. “May Nino’s spirit continue to inspire our young Timorese people to reach for their highest aspirations, knowing that with determination and dedication, there are no limits to what they can achieve.”
The President offered his thoughts and prayers to Nino’s family, and all who knew and loved him during this difficult time.
TATOLI
