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Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers of the 22nd August 2017
This Tuesday, the Prime Minister, Rui Maria de Araújo, convened the Government members for the final meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Sixth Constitutional Government to thank and acknowledge the work done by this Executive, over the last 30 months.
Rui Maria de Araújo highlighted “the great honour and pride” of the responsibility he took on, and expressed his “great appreciation for the service rendered by all during these two and a half years of mandate.” The Prime Minister stated “despite the differences, the different political origins and ideologies, the circumstances that led to the formation of this Government and, above all, the challenges we faced, I consider the work of the Sixth Constitutional Government a very positive one. I am honoured to have led this team, and even more, for the successes we have achieved.” Rui Maria de Araújo handed a certificate of personal gratitude to each member of Government, where he personally acknowledged the contribution made by each member and, citing Borja da Costa, declared “we have marked a trail in the construction of the State of Timor-Leste”.
The members of the Government thanked the Prime Minister for his political welcome, appreciation and moral and professional support. A highlight was made regarding the dignity that this Government has given to the country, as well as the consolidation of peace and stability, which has enabled Timor-Leste to aspire to the prosperity defined in the Strategic Development Plan.
Special thanks were extended to Minister Counsellor Xanana Gusmão, for the courage and trust he showed in the new generation of politicians, encompassing members of other parties when forming the structure of the Sixth Government. The knowledge he passed on was highly valued, and he generously shared the fruit of his experience including his global vision, creative strategies and many ideas on the future of the nation.
The Council of Ministers also presented an update of the proposals it presented and approved during its mandate, which will be included in the report of the governance process to be submitted to the Seventh Constitutional Government. END