DILI, 05 May 2026 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, presided over the Solemn Session celebrating World Portuguese Language Day this evening at Hotel Timor, welcoming Ministers of Education from across the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
The President described the Portuguese language as a “shared heritage” and a “living space of encounter” for over 260 million people, emphasizing its role as a fundamental pillar for social cohesion and democratic consolidation within Timor-Leste and the broader Lusophone community.
Speaking ahead of the XIV Meeting of CPLP Ministers of Education, the Head of State underscored that education remains the most powerful instrument for societal transformation.
Highlighting the summit’s focus on democratic values and civic participation, the President stated, “It is through inclusive education systems, guided by democratic values and supported by a common language, that we can build fairer, more resilient societies better prepared for the future.”
The President reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s commitment, as the current CPLP Presidency, to ensuring that inclusive education remains a strategic priority for national and regional identity.
President Ramos-Horta concluded his intervention with a firm call to action, urging the visiting delegations to ensure that high-level political orientations are translated into “concrete, measurable, and sustainable results.”
The President emphasized that the ultimate goal of the CPLP’s multilateral cooperation must be the real improvement of living conditions and opportunities for children and youth.
“May the Portuguese language continue to be the bond that unites us and the force that projects us into the world,” the President declared.
TATOLI
