Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and

Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste

 Dili, June 19th, 2017

Condolences on the passing of Vanuatu President Baldwin Lonsdale

It is with regret that the Government of Timor-Leste has learned of the passing of the President of the Republic of Vanuatu, H.E. Mr. Baldwin Lonsdale.

Mr. Lonsdale was a highly respected leader who served his Nation with dignity. Before assuming the position of Head of State in September 2014, he was a civil servant, an Anglican Priest and the highest-ranking chief in Vanuatu’s Banks group of islands.

Timor-Leste has a close relationship with the Republic of Vanuatu, a country with a history of brave and steadfast support for the Timorese people during the struggle for independence.

The Government extends its condolences to the family of President Lonsdale and reaffirms its warm friendship and strong solidarity with the people of Vanuatu.

Spokesperson, Minister of State Agio Pereira, noted “President Baldwin Lonsdale leaves a legacy as a gentleman who served with humility and courage. He will be greatly missed.”ENDS