DILI, 28 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The 12th edition of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) Sports Games, held this year in Timor-Leste, has become an opportunity for the Government to advance development in the sports sector.
KHUNTO parliamentary leader António Verdial de Sousa praised the Government for successfully organizing the event across multiple disciplines, noting its smooth execution.
According to him, the Games also serve to elevate Timor-Leste’s global presence and instill pride in the Timorese people, as the country hosts this international event that brings together brother nations to strengthen bonds of friendship, cooperation, and shared experiences –while promoting a healthy spirit of competition.
Verdial emphasized that the event is also a chance for the Executive to improve sports infrastructure across various disciplines, including creating proper conditions for Timorese athletes to develop their talents.
“We from KHUNTO continue to urge the Government, before this mandate ends, to establish a sports academy to better prepare Timorese athletes. We recommend that the Executive improve sports infrastructure across all disciplines,” he told Tatoli at Parliament today.
He added that investment in sports is essential as a driving force for national pride and development.
In another statement, the deputy suggested that in the future, a rigorous selection process should be implemented for Timorese players and athletes participating in international events, with selection beginning at the municipal level before advancing to the national stage.
It’s worth noting that Timor-Leste is the host of the CPLP Sports Games, held from July 17 to 27 under the theme “United, We Are One.”
This international event brings together hundreds of athletes from CPLP member countries, including Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Portugal. Although Brazil, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea are not participating in this edition, the competition features eight disciplines: football, tennis, beach volleyball, karate-do, taekwondo, chess, basketball, and athletics.
Journalist: Nelson de Sousa
Editor: Maria Auxiliadora
Translation: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
