Media Releases
- 26 of August of 2024Commitment to the Future: Progress and Continuity for the Second Year of the 9th GovernmentPresidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
August 26th, 2024
Commitment to the Future: Progress and Continuity for the Second Year of the 9th Government
Now that the 9th Constitutional Government, through the Political Review Committee, is analysing the sectoral budget programmes and proposals to finalise the preparation of the 2025 General State Budget, the Government, led by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of all Timorese. The careful preparation of the budget reflects the Government's will to consolidate the achievements made in its first year in office and respond effectively to the country's challenges. This budget process is seen as an opportunity to reinforce ongoing public policies and adjust strategies where necessary, always to ensure a prosperous and equitable future for Timor-Leste.
After just over a year in office, several actions have already been implemented that reflect the continued commitment to the country's social and economic development while reaffirming the Government's determination to stay the course and respond to the challenges encountered. In this context, the Government has worked to consolidate the achievements and promote the necessary reforms, showing concrete results in several key areas.
Improvements in International Integration and Economic Development
Timor-Leste's accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and progress in ASEAN membership remain critical pillars of the Government's strategy for bringing the country into the global economy. Following the formalisation of WTO accession in February, the Government has focused on preparing reforms that facilitate trade and Timor-Leste's integration into international markets, strengthening the country's position on the global economic stage. The Government has also signed several bilateral agreements in areas of strategic cooperation, strengthening diplomatic relations with various countries and organisations, and promoting Timor-Leste as an attractive destination for investment.
In agriculture, the Government has implemented several initiatives to boost the sector, including the rehabilitation and construction of irrigation systems and the distribution of modern agricultural equipment, among other actions aimed at increasing productivity and ensuring food security throughout the country.
Strengthening Structural Reforms and Security
Regarding Security, the reforms implemented in the first year, including the reintegration of police officers from the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) and the restructuring of the security forces, are being continuously evaluated and adjusted to ensure their effectiveness. The Government has reinforced its commitment to the discipline and neutrality of the security forces, which are essential for the stability and credibility of national institutions.
The restructuring of the petroleum and mineral resources sector, which began with the reformulation of the sector's entities and the approval of new exploration agreements, is progressing to ensure that these resources are managed effectively and for the benefit of all Timorese. As part of the Greater Sunrise project, negotiations continue to ensure that Timor-Leste maximises the benefits of this strategic resource.
Justice Reforms
The Government remains committed to reforming the Justice Sector, with particular emphasis on training qualified professionals. A concrete example of this effort is that 51 Timorese scholars have been sent to Portugal as part of the Justice Sector Reform Programme. Of these, 48 will attend law schools, and three specialise in forensic medicine. This measure aims to ensure that Timor-Leste has a robust and efficient judicial system capable of facing current and future challenges.
Continuity in Social Development
The Government is committed to reforming the education system and higher education. Mechanisms are being implemented to guarantee efficient human resource management in education, ensuring that education continues to improve in terms of quality and accessibility. The approval of the Higher Education Framework Law, which establishes a new structure for the sector, is also one of the concrete steps in this direction.
The Government promoted monthly increases in the amount of social pensions for invalidity and the elderly, in the non-contributory social security system. The rates of selective consumption tax and customs duties on imports, which had been brutally increased in 2023, were also adjusted.
At the same time, the Government has been continuously working on improving hospital infrastructure and implementing large-scale vaccination campaigns to strengthen hospital capacities at the national and local levels. In addition to these actions, it has endeavoured to ensure the necessary quantity of medication to meet the population's needs. Last month, a multisectoral team made up of representatives from the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Civil Service Commission, the General Inspector of the State, and the General Directorate of State Assets Management confirmed that the stock of medication at the National Institute of Pharmacy and Medical Products is adequate to meet national needs until February 2025. Processes are also underway to acquire more medication, many of which have already arrived or are on their way.
Infrastructure Development and Innovative Initiatives
Infrastructure development continues to be a priority, emphasising the soon-to-be-undertaken rehabilitation of the President Nicolau Lobato International Airport. This project aims to improve Timor-Leste's connectivity with the world. The recent installation of the submarine fibre optic cable linking Timor-Leste to Darwin in Australia represents another critical milestone, promising to transform the country's digital infrastructure and boost economic development.
Following an in-depth study into the needs for urgent intervention, the Government has prioritised the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of the national, municipal and rural road network, following international quality and safety standards, and the development of infrastructure that is essential for economic growth and the well-being of the population. A process of normalising streams is also underway, aimed at mitigating the risk of flooding and protecting local communities, thus ensuring greater resilience to climate change. In the water and sanitation sector, the Government has made progress in implementing the Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan in Dili and the municipal capitals, guaranteeing safe access to drinking water, which is fundamental for improving health, education and social development indicators.
Launching the One-Stop Shop was also an essential step towards simplifying administrative processes, especially for small and medium-sized companies, thus promoting a more efficient and accessible business environment.
Towards a Sustainable and Prosperous Future
While progress is being made in consolidating the first year's achievements, the Government is already preparing a set of strategic initiatives for 2025. Among the main plans are continuing the economic and fiscal reforms, expanding the infrastructure modernisation programme, and strengthening social policies, with particular emphasis on health and education. The Government also plans to intensify efforts towards full membership in ASEAN, strengthening Timor-Leste's regional and global roles. Implementing blue economy projects and continuing the anti-corruption policy will also be priorities, ensuring that the country's development is based on principles of transparency, sustainability, and fairness.
The 9th Constitutional Government reaffirms its commitment to continue working tirelessly for sustainable development and the population's well-being. Recognising that the work is far from complete, the Government is focused on consolidating the achievements made and responding effectively to the challenges that remain, always to build a prosperous and equitable future for all citizens. ENDS
- 21 of August of 2024Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 21st, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 21st, 2024
available soon - 15 of August of 2024Day off on September 9th to 11th, 2024, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
August 15th, 2024
Day off on September 9th to 11th, 2024, 2024
Given that Article 7(2)(a) of Law no. 10/2005, of August 10th, as amended by Laws no. 3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023 of April 5th, provides that day off may be granted on the occasion of an official commemorative date.
Considering that between 9th to 11th of September 2024, Timor-Leste will receive the visit from His Holiness Pope Francis;
Considering the importance of this visit not only for the Timorese state, but also for the majority of the national population who profess the Catholic religion;
Also taking into consideration the will of the State and Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to receive His Holiness Pope Francis with the greatest possible honour;
In view of the need for a large number of people to travel to Dili to take part in the great event of liturgical celebration by His Holiness the Pope;
In addition to the fact that thousands of pilgrims are expected to be on the national roads, there is also a need to guarantee a safe environment, namely by reducing the number of vehicles circulating and conditioning various roads;
Given that according to the provisions of Article 7(6)(d) of Law no. 10/2005, of August 10th, as amended by Laws no. 3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023, of April 5th, it is the Prime Minister's responsibility to grant a day off to “officials and agents of the ministries or services dependent on them, as well as institutes and bodies integrated into the indirect administration of the State”;
Therefore, pursuant to Article 7(2)(a) and Article 7(6)(d) of Law 10/2005 of August 10th, as amended by Laws 3/2016 of May 25th and 10/2023 of April 5th, I hereby determine the following:
It is granted day off from 9 to 11 September 2024.
This order covers officials, agents, and workers who work in direct State administration services, whether central or deconcentrated or in indirect administration bodies
The human resources of public services that, due to the nature of their activity, must remain in operation during that period are exempt from the previous paragraph.
Without prejudice to the continuity and quality of the public service to be provided, the senior managers of the services referred to in the previous paragraph must promote the equivalent exemption from the duty of attendance of the respective human resources on a day to be set in due course.
To instruct the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment to promote and encourage workers in the private sector to take part in the activities planned to welcome the Holy Father, by authorising their absence from work, with the exception of those who, due to the nature of their activity, must remain in operation, so that they can take part in these extremely important events together with workers in the public sector. END
- 15 of August of 2024Day off on August 28th and 29th, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
August 15th, 2024
Day off on August 28th and 29th, 2024
Considering that paragraph a) of number 2 of article 7 of f Law no.10/2005 of August 10th, as amended by Laws no. 3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023 of April, provides that time off may be granted on an official commemorative date.
Bearing in mind that under the terms of paragraph e) of number 1 of article 2 of Law no.10/2005, of August 10th, as amended by Law no.3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023 of April 5th, August 30th is National Holiday, as “Popular Consultation Day”;
Considering that this year marks the 25th anniversary of Popular Consultation Day”.
Bearing in mind the historic importance of august 30th 1999, which at the end of a referendum process, despite the atmosphere of intimidation and violence, resulted in the self-determination of the Timorese people and the independence of the country;
Also considering the IX Constitutional Government’s desire to celebrate 25th anniversary of this historic milestone with the population, with various commemorations throughout the country.
Considering the need to enable people to travel to their places of origin to celebrate this historic date with their families.
Whereas according to the paragraph d) of number 6 of article 7 of Law no.10/2005, of August 10th , amended by Laws no.3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023, of April 5th, it is the Prime Minister’s responsibility to grant day off to officials and agents of the ministries or services dependent on them, as well as institutes and bodies integrated into the indirect administration of the State”;
Therefore, pursuant to the provision of paragraphs 2(a) and 6(d) of article 7 of Law no.10/2005, of August, as amended by Laws no.3/2016, of May 25th, and 10/2023 of April 5th, I hereby determine the following:
It is granted days off on August 28th and 29th 2024
This order covers all officials, agents and workers who work in the State’s direct administration services, whether centralized or deconcentrated, or in indirect administration bodies.
Exceptions to the previous paragraph are the human resources of public services who, due to the nature of their activity, must remain in operation during that period.
Without prejudice to the continuity and quality of the public service to be provided, the chief executives of the services referred to in the previous paragraph must promote the equivalent exemption from duty of attendance of the respective human resources, on a day to be set in due course.
To instruct the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment, along with representative of the Private Sector, to request that workers be duly excused so that they, together with public sector workers, can take part in the commemoration of this very, very important date. END - 14 of August of 2024Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 14th, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 14th, 2024
The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and decided to approve the program for the celebrations of the 25th Anniversary of the Popular Consultation.
The celebrations in Dili will begin on August 28, at the Dili Municipal Stadium, with the official opening attended by the Prime Minister and other members of the government. On that day, an exhibition about UNAMET and a book fair will be inaugurated. On August 29th, there will be an official dinner at Lahane Palace and an exhibition at the Archives and Museum of Timorese Resistance (AMRT, Portugues Acronym) dedicated to the women of the resistance.
The peak of the celebrations will take place on August 30, the 25th anniversary of the 1999 Popular Consultation. On that date, a solemn session will be held in the National Parliament, attended by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries. In the afternoon, a public ceremony will be held at Dili's Municipal Stadium, which will include speeches, traditional dances, one minute of silence in honor of the victims, and a fireworks display. After the official ceremonies are over, the public will be invited to a musical concert at the Dili Convention Center (CCD).
Recognizing that the Popular Consultation of August 30, 1999 was a decisive moment for the self-determination of the Timorese people and the restoration of Timor-Leste’s independence, the Prime Minister, by a decree, designated the members of the Government and public administration leaders to preside over the ceremonies commemorating the 25th anniversary of this historic date, to be held in municipalities and administrative posts throughout the country, ensuring due institutional representation and the broad participation of the population.
*****
The Council of Ministers also decided to grant time off on August 28 and 29, as part of the celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the Popular Consultation, and on September 9 to 11, on the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to Timor-Leste. END - 07 of August of 2024Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 7th, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers on August 7th, 2024
The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and approved the draft Government Resolution, presented by the Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, which reinforces the importance of celebrating Children's Day in Timor-Leste, with June 1st being set as the National Day of Timorese Children.
*****
Also approved was the draft Government Resolution, presented by the Minister for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira and the Secretary of State for Equality, Elvina de Sousa Carvalho, on the establishment and functioning of the Interministerial Commission for the Implementation and Monitoring of the National Action Plan Against Gender-Based Violence (PAN-VBG) 2022-2032
******
The Commission will be comprised of representatives from the Ministries of Education, State Administration, Health, Social Solidarity and Justice, as well as the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL Portuguese acronyms) and three representatives from civil society. The Commission will be coordinated by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The Commission's competencies include coordinating the activities set out in the NAP-GVP, supporting evaluation initiatives, identifying progress and challenges, drawing up annual activity reports and promoting the dissemination of these reports to civil society and the public.
The creation of this Commission is intended to improve inter-ministerial coordination and the effectiveness of actions to prevent and combat gender-based violence. The measure also aims to increase protection and support for victims of violence, promote gender equality and strengthen legal and institutional mechanisms to combat discrimination and violence.
*****
The Council of Ministers approved the draft Resolution to the National Parliament, presented by the Vice-Minister for ASEAN Affairs, Milena Maria da Costa Rangel, for the ratification of the Agreement, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas not under national jurisdiction.
The ratification of this Agreement will strengthen Timor-Leste's commitments to the protection of the marine environment and global biodiversity, promoting the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans.
*****
The Council of Ministers also approved the Government Resolution, presented by the Minister of Finance, Santina José Rodrigues F. Viegas Cardoso, for the creation of the Interministerial Sectoral Development Coordination Committees.
The Interministerial Coordination Committees, created by this Government Resolution, aim to optimize and monitor development in the areas of infrastructure, economic development, social affairs and institutional strengthening in Timor-Leste. These committees aim to ensure the effectiveness of foreign aid and alignment with the National Strategic Development Plan.
With this Government Resolution, four Interministerial Coordination Committees are established, each with specific responsibilities. The Infrastructure Commission will be led by the Minister for Planning and Strategic Investment. The Economic Development Commission will be led by the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs and the Minister for Tourism and the Environment. The Social Affairs Committee will be led by the coordinating minister for Social Affairs. Lastly, the Institutional Development Commission will be led by the Minister for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. Each committee will include representatives from various ministries and secretariats of state relevant to their areas of activity.
The responsibilities of these commissions include identifying risks, defining priority actions, coordinating technical assistance and preparing sectoral development plans. Each commission will produce quarterly activity reports, which will be submitted to the Council of Ministers. Technical and secretarial support will be provided by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
*****
Also approved was the draft Government Resolution, presented by the Minister of Interior, Francisco da Costa Guterres, on the rules of engagement for the joint security operation of F-FDTL and PNTL Task Force, for the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to Timor-Leste.
This Government Resolution regulates the use of force by the F-FDTL and PNTL during the joint security operation. The use of force must comply with the principles of necessity, appropriateness and proportionality, and respect citizens' rights and guarantees. The rules of engagement are only effective after specific authorization by the Joint Task Force Command.
The implementation of these rules aims to ensure an effective and coordinated security operation, guaranteeing protection during Pope Francis' visit, while respecting human rights and the legal norms in force. The joint operation between F-FDTL and PNTL will allow for a more robust and coordinated response to any threat to public safety.
*****
The Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment, Rogério Araújo Mendonça, made a presentation to the Council of Ministers on the autonomous institutions in this sector. END
- 31 of July of 2024Meeting of the Council of Ministers on July 31st, 2024Approved:more
✅ 1 - Financial Contribution Agreement between the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Japan International Cooperation Agency for the Guido Valadares National Hospital Requalification project;
✅ 2 - First amendment to Decree-Law 15/2012 of March 28th on regulating the telecommunications sector; and
✅ 3 - Authorises the acquisition of properties belonging to private individuals through private law and the payment of the corresponding prices. - 24 of July of 2024Meeting of the Council of Ministers on July 24th, 2024Presidency of the Council of Ministersmore
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
.............................................................................................................................
Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers on July 24th, 2024
The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and decided to grant full powers to the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Marcos da Cruz, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China on Consolidating Agricultural Cooperation.
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is to strengthen agricultural co-operation in a pragmatic way, improve food security, promote economic and social development and raise the welfare of the populations of both countries.
The Council of Ministers also decided to grant full powers to the Secretary of State for Social Communication, Expedito Dias Ximenes, to sign a memorandum of understanding between the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the National Radio and Television Administration of the People's Republic of China, for cooperation in the field of radio and television.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Filipus Nino Pereira, made a presentation to the Council of Ministers on the initiative to reactivate and revise the “Facility for Light Credit Guarantee” (Fasilidade Garantia Crédito Suave) credit line, proposing its transformation into a new programme entitled "Facility for Healthy Credit Guarantee” (Fasilidade Garantia Crédito Saudável).
The revision of this programme aims to correct observed contradictions, improve the efficiency and accessibility of credit, and expand support to new economic activities. The planned changes include correcting the implementation model and improving access requirements.
The initiative aims to promote and stimulate private investment in strategic sectors such as agriculture, livestock, fisheries, tourism and industry, which are essential for the growth and diversification of the national economy.
The Council of Ministers also approved the draft Government Resolution, presented by the Minister of Finance, Santina José Rodrigues F. Viegas Cardoso, on the definition of the composition of the Political Review Committee for the General State Budget for the year 2025.
The Political Review Committee is responsible for verifying the strategic allocation of resources in the budget submissions, with a view to achieving the commitments and objectives set out in the strategic documents and assessing the feasibility of the plans for the financial year 2025.
The Political Review Committee will be chaired by the Prime Minister and is also composed of the two Deputy Prime Ministers, the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Public Works and the Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment. The Secretary of State for Equality and Inclusion, the President of the Institute for the Defence of Children's Rights and a representative of the Disabled People's Association of Timor-Leste will also take part in the Political Review Committee meetings as observers.
The meetings of the Political Review Committee will take place from 12 to 27 August 2024 in the Auditorium of the Ministry of Finance. END
