DILI, 22 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, reaffirmed his commitment to national sports development by attending various competitions of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP) Games, currently taking place in Dili.
Accompanied by the Minister of Youth, Sports, Art and Culture, Nélio Isaac Sarmento, the Head of State watched beach volleyball games in Lecidere, Taekwondo competitions at the Dili Gymnasium (GDD), as well as men’s and women’s basketball matches.
The President’s support was not limited to celebrating victories. During difficult moments, such as the national under-16 football team’s 4-0 defeat to Cape Verde, Ramos-Horta made sure to convey words of encouragement to the young Timorese athletes.
Among the competition highlights, Deovia Barreto da Silva won the gold medal in the women’s 46kg Taekwondo category, after an intense final against Portuguese athlete Gabriela Filipa da Silva Mendes. In the men’s 55kg category, Nélio dos Santos Martins secured the silver medal.
The impressive performance of Timorese athletes in Taekwondo, successfully facing experienced opponents from Portugal, Angola and Mozambique, demonstrated the growing strength of national sports programs.
The Head of State’s constant presence at sporting activities reflects his administration’s strategic focus on sports as an instrument for promoting national pride and youth engagement. Minister Nélio Isaac expressed his appreciation for the President’s firm support, highlighting the positive impact of his presence among Timorese athletes and representatives from CPLP brother countries.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
