DILI, 27 May 2026 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta on Wednesday extended Eid al-Adha greetings to Timor-Leste’s Muslim community and Muslims around the world, praising their contributions to peace, unity and democracy.
In a message marking Eid al-Adha 2026, Ramos-Horta said the Islamic celebration carries a universal meaning of faith, sacrifice and devotion, while also serving as a reminder of shared human dignity.
“On behalf of the people of Timor-Leste, I extend my warmest wishes to you all on this joyous occasion of Eid al-Adha 2026,” Ramos-Horta said.
He said Eid al-Adha recalls “the profound story of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice what was most precious to him in devotion to the Almighty.”
Ramos-Horta linked the occasion to Timor-Leste’s own experience of reconciliation and coexistence, saying the country continues to uphold freedom of religion and mutual respect among communities of different faiths.
“In Timor-Leste, we also know the power of forgiveness and the beauty of building a nation where every faith can pray freely,” he said.
The president said Timor-Leste embraces the principles of human fraternity outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, which calls on people to recognize that all human beings belong to one family and are equal in dignity and rights.
“Our nation is a testament to the possibility of living together — all ethnicities, all faiths — Catholics, Muslims, Protestants, and traditional believers living as brothers and sisters,” he said.
Addressing the Muslim community in Timor-Leste directly, Ramos-Horta described Muslims as “an integral and cherished part” of the country’s diverse national family and acknowledged their role in strengthening the nation.
“Your commitment to peace, your hard work in building our young democracy, and your spirit of generosity during this holy season strengthen the very soul of our country,” he said.
Ramos-Horta also extended a message to Muslims beyond Timor-Leste, saying the country stands in solidarity with the wider global Muslim community at a time of growing international tensions and division.
“To the wider Muslim community around the world: Timor-Leste stands with you,” he said. “In a world often fractured by conflict and misunderstanding, be this Eid be a living embodiment of human fraternity.”
He added: “Let us remember that no one is superior to another; only those who serve humanity with compassion are truly great.”
Ramos-Horta said Eid al-Adha also offers an opportunity to reflect on generosity, especially through prayer, family gatherings and sharing with people in need.
“As you gather with your families, offer your prayers, and share your meals with the less fortunate, know that you are not alone. Your joy is our joy; your peace is the world’s hope,” he said.
He concluded by wishing Muslim families in Timor-Leste and around the world joy, peace and prosperity, and called for continued unity in building a more just and compassionate nation.
“May this Eid al-Adha bring joy, peace, and prosperity to your families and communities. May it strengthen the bonds that unite us as one people, and may it inspire us all to continue working together for a more just, compassionate, and prosperous Timor-Leste,” Ramos-Horta said. “Eid Mubarak to all our Muslim community.”
TATOLI
