DILI, 24 November 2025 (TATOLI) – Swiss ophthalmologist and surgeon Andréas Josef Kreis was awarded the Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste on the 20th in Rome, Italy, by President José Ramos-Horta, in recognition of his “decades of exceptional and dedicated service to Timor-Leste’s health sector.”
Ramos-Horta praised Kreis’s “tireless” commitment, saying it reflects the best of international friendship and solidarity.
He noted that Kreis spent many years generously sharing his expertise to restore sight to countless Timorese and to strengthen ophthalmology services across the country.
Ramos-Horta added that, by training young Timorese doctors, Kreis helped not only treat patients but also reinforce the national health system. The President described the award as an expression of the nation’s deep gratitude, according to a presidential statement obtained by Tatoli.
The Head of State stressed that Kreis’s work has been crucial in fostering ties between peoples and has directly contributed to peace, national stability, and the development of Timor-Leste.
Kreis first became involved with Timor-Leste while working in Australia, at the Centre for Eye Research Australia and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Melbourne. His commitment eventually led him to relocate to Timor-Leste to work with the East Timor Eye Program (ETEP).
Founded in 2000 by Australian ophthalmologist Nitin Verma, ETEP is a comprehensive eye-health program focused on treating preventable blindness and building a sustainable national ophthalmology service through clinical care, training, and mentorship.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
