DILI, 24 November 2025 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, officially inaugurated the National Fair at Tasi-Tolu today, marking the start of the celebrations for the 50th Anniversary of the Unilateral Proclamation of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.
The grand opening served as a tribute to the nation’s resilience, gathering citizens and dignitaries to honor the historic unilateral declaration made in 1975 and to showcase the country’s development over the last half-century.
Open to the public from November 24 to 29, the National Fair is organized by the Ministry of State Administration and features municipal pavilions displaying agricultural products supported by the Government and international agencies, while also demonstrating progress toward the transition to municipal chambers in 2027.
Visitors can experience the unique identity of each region through art, culture, and creative youth groups, alongside a showcase of local cuisine organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Following the public festivities, the Head of State participated in a special television interview with RTTL, E.P., centered on the theme of using the past to inspire confidence in the present and hope for the future.
During the interview, President Ramos-Horta offered a detailed historical reflection on the critical days leading up to November 28, 1975, sharing his personal experiences on the diplomatic front and the strategic decisions made by national leaders to assert sovereignty amidst a vacuum of administration.
The President concluded by highlighting Timor-Leste’s remarkable journey, from diplomatic isolation to becoming an active and respected voice on the global stage, particularly within the United Nations.
Emphasizing the contrast between the struggles of 1975 and today’s reality, he delivered a message of unity to the Timorese people, urging the nation to draw strength from its history to continue consolidating the State and building a prosperous future.
TATOLI
