Government pays tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis by signing Book of Condolences
On April 22nd, 2025, the members of the 9th Constitutional Government went to the Episcopal Residence in Lecidere, Dili, to pay homage to His Holiness Pope Francis and sign the book of condolences, after the extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers, in which National Mourning was decreed. This symbolic gesture, carried out on behalf of the Timorese people, was intended to express their deep sorrow at the death for the Supreme Pontiff, who died on April 21st, 2025, in Vatican City. 
In a statement issued the day before, the government said that it was “with great consternation and deep sorrow that Timor-Leste received the news of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, a spiritual leader of inestimable impact on humanity, tireless defender of the most vulnerable and promoter of peace, justice and fraternity among peoples”. 
The Government Spokesman and Minister for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira, recalling the recent visit of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, to Timor-Leste, expressed that this “was much more than a simple visit. It was a profound encounter with people who have suffered so much to gain their freedom and independence. The Holy Father arrived in Timor-Leste and conquered the hearts and souls of a nation, leaving a powerful message: that the Timorese people transform their faith into their culture - and they have succeeded. A culture of reconciliation, tolerance and forgiveness. The culture of a people who place the values of peace, harmony and solidarity at the highest level of their existence. Our people will be eternally grateful for the Holy Father's efforts in granting us this meeting - this sacred union.” 
The apostolic visit was a historic moment for the country, mobilizing hundreds of thousands of Timorese in demonstrations of faith and devotion, especially the Eucharistic celebration in Tasi Tolu, which was attended by around 600,000 faithful During his stay, he left a message of hope, unity and commitment to peace, stressing the importance of youth and the protection of the cultural and spiritual values of the Timorese people. 
On the same morning, the Council of Ministers decreed National Mourning throughout the territory of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, between 10 a.m. on April 22nd and midnight on April 28th, 2025. During this period, the National Flag must be flown at half-mast in all public buildings, diplomatic representations abroad and state vessels. 
The Government of Timor-Leste reaffirms its solidarity with the Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals, the Argentine people and all the faithful around the world, expressing its deepest gratitude for the life, mission and legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis.
