DILI, 04 february 2026 (TATOLI) – On the sidelines of the prestigious 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Gala, President Jose Ramos-Horta held a brief but significant meeting with His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Representative of the Holy See and Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education.
The encounter took place on the evening of february 4 at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi, where both dignitaries were gathered to honor global efforts in fostering human connection and reconciliation.
During their exchange, President Ramos-Horta and Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça emphasized that education and culture are essential pillars for achieving lasting peace and safeguarding human dignity.
They discussed the vital importance of intercultural and inter-religious dialogue, noting that these elements are fundamental to creating a more harmonious world.
As a Nobel Peace Laureate, the President highlighted how these values align perfectly with Timor-Leste’s national identity and its commitment to the global mission of human fraternity.
The meeting underscores the deep and enduring relationship between Timor-Leste and the Holy See, particularly in their shared advocacy for the principles contained in the Document on Human Fraternity.
TATOLI
