Welcome to the Blog!
Timor-Leste, a country Pope Francis is set to visit during his upcoming apostolic journey, is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its separation from Indonesia.
By Linda Bordoni
The Timorese Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and President Jose Ramos-Horta are revered as heroes of their country’s independence movement. Xanana, the first president of East Timor after independence, bravely led the resistance against the brutal occupation. Meanwhile, Ramos-Horta, the country’s de-facto foreign minister in exile, was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in securing independence.
In recent days, Timor-Leste welcomed a UN delegation and United Nations chief Antonio Guterres to mark the occasion. Guterres stated that the country’s independence served as an example that conflicts can be resolved through negotiation.
Timor-Leste gained its independence in 2002 after a landmark ballot overseen by the U.N. in 1999. Despite facing challenges and violence from pro-Jakarta militias, the nation has evolved into a contributor to U.N. peacekeeping missions.
Former Prime Minister of Portugal, Guterres expressed his privilege in witnessing Timor-Leste’s journey towards peace and democracy. The nation, once occupied by Indonesia, has now emerged as a symbol of harmony and democracy in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on Timor-Leste as Pope Francis’ visit approaches!
