On August 30th, Timor-Leste celebrates the 25th anniversary of the historic referendum that led to the restoration of its independence. A series of events will highlight the importance of this milestone in the country’s history. The celebrations, which will last several days, will be attended by several prominent personalities, including the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, and current and former rulers of various countries.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, arrived in Dili today. He was welcomed by the President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, and the Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão. On his arrival, António Guterres was greeted by hundreds of children along Avenida Nicolau Lobato.
During his visit, the Secretary-General of the United Nations will be awarded the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste in recognition of his role as Prime Minister of Portugal between 1995 and 2002. During that time, he stood out as “a prominent defender of the right of the people of Timor-Leste to self-determination and independence”.
The commemorations of the 25th Anniversary of the Popular Consultation of August 30th, 1999, will take place throughout the territory of Timor-Leste, with members of the Government present in each Administrative Post. This celebration will be marked by several activities between August 28th and 30th, 2024, including main celebrations in Dili, at the Municipal Stadium, the National Parliament, the Archives & Museum of Timorese Resistance and the Noble Palace of Lahane.
Under the theme “It was the People Who Fought! It was the People Who Suffered! It was the People Who Won the Fight!!! The People are the Great Heroes of Independence!!!” this year’s celebrations highlight the crucial role of the Timorese in achieving their independence.
The complete programme of the celebrations is available on the Timor-Leste Government Portal at https://timor-leste.gov.tl/?p=39114&lang=pt.