DILI, 30 April 2026 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta on Thursday reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s close ties with the Holy See and called for greater global solidarity, urging international creditors to provide debt relief for the world’s most vulnerable nations.
Ramos-Horta made the remarks while attending celebrations marking Vatican National Day at the Apostolic Nunciature residence in Motael, Dili.
The event, hosted by the Apostolic Nunciature, brought together government officials, diplomats and other invited guests to commemorate the annual observance.
During his address, the president highlighted what he described as the longstanding and productive relationship between Timor-Leste and the Holy See, saying the partnership is grounded in shared values of peace, reconciliation and human dignity.
He said that for the Timorese people, the principles of human dignity and human rights are not simply symbolic commitments, but are deeply embedded in the country’s national identity and post-conflict history.
Ramos-Horta also used the occasion to address broader global challenges, including armed conflict, environmental degradation and growing economic inequality.
He warned of what he described as the “gratuitous desecration of the laws of war” and raised concerns over the depletion of natural resources.
The president appealed to international financial institutions and commercial lenders to show “wisdom and compassion” by rescheduling or cancelling debt owed by poorer countries.
He argued that unsustainable debt burdens continue to limit developing countries’ ability to invest in essential sectors such as health and education.
“The burden of debt prevents essential investments in education and health,” Ramos-Horta said, calling for a stronger sense of shared global responsibility to help break cycles of poverty and instability.
Reflecting on Timor-Leste’s own history, Ramos-Horta said human rights remain an essential safeguard against abuses linked to unchecked power, corruption and violence.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to peace, dialogue and international unity, drawing on Timor-Leste’s experience of reconciliation.
The ceremony ended with a toast celebrating continued friendship between Timor-Leste and the Vatican, as well as a shared commitment to the well-being of all peoples.
TATOLI
