The Prime Minister, Rui Maria de Araujo, took part in the 4th Congress of the Timor-Leste’s Medical Doctors Association (TLMDA), which took place on January 30th. The theme of this Congress was: “Strengthen the existence of TLMDA to promote a better health for the people of Timor-Leste.” The Congress took place in Salão Esperança, in Aimutin, Dili.
The Prime Minister, who was a founder and is a member of TLMDA, stated that the doctor profession, in number terms, is the largest and best prepared in Timorese society.
The Head of Government recalled that the doctors’ efforts to organise themselves professionally in Timor-Leste comes from Indonesian occupation times. Furthermore, he stressed that medical doctors have a great responsibility in Timorese society in terms of their contribution to development, not only in the health area, but also as a stimulus to the socio-economic development of the country.
The Prime Minister, in his capacity as a member of the Association, obtained the majority of votes to chair the Congress Board. Three important issues were discussed: the assessment of the activity and financial reports of the Executive Board for the period 2012-2015; the revision of statutes of TLMDA and the election to the National Executive Committee and advisory bodies for the period 2016-2019. The sessions were held in an open and democratic debate environment, with active participation from all members.
The Prime Minister closed the works wishing the new National Executive Committee and the Advisory Body of TLMDA luck. He also thanked the work and dedication of the previous Executive Committee, as well as the ad hoc organising committee.
After the 4th Congress of TLMDA, a Mass, the swearing in of the new members of the National Executive Committee and a dinner of fraternization among the members of the TLMDA were held.
Took part also in the Congress the Minister of Health, Maria do Céu Sarmento Pina da Costa, the former Minister of Health, Sérgio Lobo, and the medical doctors members of the Association.