Government of Timor-Leste

The XVI Conference of Ministers of Youth and Sports (CMJD) of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), held on July 27, 2025, in Dili, marked the transfer of the presidency of the Conference Republic of Angola to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. The handover ceremony took place at the JL World Hotel and was attended by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and delegations from CPLP member states.

In his speech, the Head of Government emphasized the event's relevance for strengthening the common identity and valuing young people in the CPLP countries. "Geographical distance often limits Timor-Leste's participation in CPLP events, but it demonstrated that barriers can be overcome when there is a willingness to join forces," he stated.  Addressing the ministers in attendance, he added: "It was a success. We noted that friendship and cooperation were essential to promote unity among the youth of the CPLP. This event demonstrated that Timor-Leste can and should continue to be part of these initiatives, with even greater involvement."

The Prime Minister also argued that CPLP governments should continue investing in youth talent and in sports as tools to cultivate values ​​of harmony, solidarity, and inclusion. "In an increasingly uncertain world, the CPLP has a responsibility to preserve its diversity and common identity, promoting peace through youth," he declared.

During the conference, the ministers approved strategic documents for future cooperation in the sector, namely the Declaration on Integrity in Sport and the Ethics Plan for Sports in the CPLP, reaffirming the commitment to a sporting practice based on ethical and inclusive values. Topics also discussed included the financing of the Conference's activities, the review of the CMJD's Bylaws, and the scheduling of upcoming anchor activities, including the VIII edition of the CPLP Sports Games, scheduled for 2027 in Brazil.

In his closing address, Angola's Minister of Youth and Sports, Rui Falcão Pinto de Andrade, said that "Angola has committed to an ambitious work agenda, based on three fundamental pillars: the consolidation of multilateral cooperation, the empowerment of youth, and the strengthening of sports as drivers of inclusion and peace."    He also congratulated Timor-Leste on the excellence of the organization and expressed "complete confidence in the next leadership to continue this work, maintaining the spirit of cooperation and friendship that characterizes our community."

The presidency was officially transferred to Timor-Leste, which now leads the CMJD-CPLP through the Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Nelyo Isaac Sarmento. On this occasion, Timor-Leste reiterated its commitment to continuing ongoing initiatives and promoting new opportunities for young people in the CPLP, through the promotion of sports, intercultural dialogue, and solidarity among peoples.

The CPLP Conference of Ministers of Youth and Sports is an official forum where ministers responsible for youth and sports from Member states share experiences, coordinate policies, and define joint strategies. The last edition took place in Cascais, Portugal, and the next meeting is scheduled for 2027, under the Timorese presidency.