Government opens Balibó Fort Hotel and Cultural and Heritage Centre
The Timor-Leste Government inaugurated the Balibó Fort Hotel and Cultural and Heritage Centre in the municipality of Bobonaro, on March 20th.
Representing the Timorese government at the opening ceremony of the Hotel, which is located in the centre of the Balibó’s Administrative Post, were the Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, and Secretary of State for Arts and Culture, Maria Isabel Ximenes. The Ambassador of Australia in Díli, Peter Doyle was also present.
During the inauguration, Minister Xanana Gusmão recalled the five journalists, from Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain, who were shot dead in Balibó, by invading Indonesian forces, on October 16th, 1975.
"They came here to defend us and, although they didn’t have any connection to our country, put their lives at risk. They came to tell the world what was happening in Timor-Leste," said the former Prime Minister.
The Minister added that this is a historical site for the new generation, and a tribute to the five journalists. "This project is a source of employment for the young people of the Administrative Post of Balibó".
In his speech, the Secretary of State for Culture explained that the Fort of Balibó belonged to the former Cavalry of Bobonaro and assured that the Government is making all efforts to preserve the country’s historical and cultural heritage: "Our historical Heritage is spread over the whole territory and we have the obligation to preserve it because it is part of our national identity."
The Ambassador of Australia in Timor-Leste, Peter Doyle mentioned that this ceremony is, at the same time, both symbolic and tragic in the relationship between the two countries. "The Fort Hotel and Cultural and Heritage Centre were built in memory of Greg Shackleton, Cary Cuningham, Malcolm Rennie, Brian Peters and Tony Stewart. This site gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of Timor-Leste", he said.
The Australian Government is convinced that the project has the potential to contribute in a sustainable way, to the local economy and create employment opportunities for the community of Balibó.
"It is a great partnership between the Australian program of cooperation for development, the Balibó House Trust, and the private sector that plays an important role in development. Congratulations to the community of Balibó and let us hope that the tourists come visit this and other locations in Timor-Leste', concluded Peter Doyle.
