DILI, 29 November 2025 (TATOLI) – The East Timorese Association Peterborough (ETAP), a registered charity, organized a celebration marking the 50th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s unilateral declaration of independence in the city of Peterborough, United Kingdom, on Friday (November 28).
The historic event brought together ETAP members, the Parish Council, the Timorese community, volunteers, and representatives from other communities, reinforcing ties among Timorese abroad while promoting the nation’s history and culture.
In his address, ETAP President Celso Oliveira emphasized that the commemoration was intended to honor the heroes who fought for Timor-Leste’s national independence.
“This moment is part of Timor-Leste’s history. By commemorating this important date, the diaspora plays a vital role in keeping our history alive and passing on the story of national independence to future generations,” Oliveira stated in a press release to Tatoli.
He further highlighted that such celebrations help preserve and strengthen cultural identity:
“This is an opportunity to reinforce friendships among Timorese, to connect with our homeland, traditions, and shared history. It fosters pride and strengthens unity within the diaspora especially among Timorese in Peterborough, ensuring that the memory of the independence struggle continues to live within a strong community,” he stressed.
The program began with the singing of the national anthem Pátria, Pátria, followed by a reading of the Independence Proclamation by ETAP member Demetrio Silva. A minute of silence was then led by Estanislau Ximenes, after which President Celso Oliveira delivered his speech. The event concluded with cake cutting, traditional Timorese food, and cultural music performances, including Tebe-tebe.
Since 2002, Peterborough has become home to nearly one thousand Timorese residents; men and women, elders and youth, workers and students. While many parents are employed in local factories, their children pursue education across primary schools, secondary schools, colleges, and universities.
TATOLI
