DILI, 07 November 2025 (TATOLI) – The Minister of State Administration, Tomás do Rosário Cabral, presented the official program for the 50th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s Independence Proclamation Day to President José Ramos-Horta during a meeting held at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace.
The national celebrations will take place in Dili, with a week of activities scheduled between November 24 and 29. The events will include cultural fairs and exhibitions at Tasi-Tolu, culminating in the official flag-hoisting ceremony on November 28 at the Government Palace, the historic site where the independence of Timor-Leste was proclaimed in 1975.
During the meeting, President Ramos-Horta provided strategic guidance on the commemorations, highlighting the importance of international recognition and national unity. The Head of State suggested sending a special invitation to the former President of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, in recognition of the strong bilateral ties built over the years.
The President also proposed that the Government pay tribute to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, for the fundamental role he played in support of Timor-Leste’s self-determination during his term as Prime Minister of Portugal in 1999.
Minister Cabral confirmed that the commemorations will be nationwide, with ceremonies in all municipalities and administrative posts, in order to ensure broad public participation. The program also includes the inauguration of a Portuguese-funded reconstruction project at the Santa Cruz Cemetery, to be held on November 12.
The government is focused on holding a series of events that not only honor the sacrifices made for independence but also unite the entire nation in a spirit of celebration and reflection on its sovereign journey.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
