The celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET) continued this morning, September 14, 2024, with a parade that started march  from the Port of Dili to the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. The parade was attended by former INTERFET members, timorese veterans, government representatives and international guests. 

 Following the parade, there was a blessing ceremony for the INTERFET Memorial, located in the former heliport used by the peacekeeping force next to the Presidential Palace. This ceremony marks the official start of the construction of the INTERFET International Memorial and Museum, which will honor INTERFET’s important role in restoring peace and stability in Timor-Leste. 

 In his speech, Minister Agio Pereira highlighted the historic importance  of this project, saying that “this memorial will be a lasting symbol of bravery, solidarity and hope. Not only a tribute to the past, but also a beacon of inspiration for future generations. Today, with this blessing, we begin the construction of a space that will be dedicated to the memory of those who fought for peace and justice in Timor-Leste.”

 “Timor-Leste has come a long way since those early days. The resilience and strength of the Timorese people have transformed a land that once faced great adversity into a prosperous nation. This progress is a tribute to INTERFET’s collective effort and to the lasting partnership between Timor-Leste and the International Community,” the Minister stressed.

 The Governor said that “twenty-five years ago, in response to the urgent call for peace and stability, INTERFET – an international force made up of brave men and women from around the world – stepped forward to support the people of Timor-Leste. Their mission was not just a military operation, but a profound expression of solidarity and commitment to human rights and justice.” 

 Minister Agio Pereira also said that “this anniversary is not only a moment to honor the past, but also an opportunity to renew our dedication to the ongoing journey of peace and nation-building and support for Timor-Leste. Let us celebrate the achievements of the past, while looking to the future with hope and determination”.

 He ended his speech by expressing the wish “that this place be blessed with the light of hope and the spirit of unity” that defined the mission and made a commitment “to the ongoing work of building a just and peaceful world”.

 In the afternoon, the celebrations continue with futsal matches and a concert, from 16:30 to  20:30. On the futsal field adjacent to the Presidential Palace, the first game will be played between the women’s teams of the Ministry of Defense and Defence Forces of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL). The second match will  play a team from Timor-Leste against a team from the United Nations.

 The concert will have the participantion of several bands, including the Smith Brothers, the Australian Army, F-FDTL & Gurkhas, and the Dili All Stars, providing a moment of celebration for everyone present.

 The commemorations will culminate on September 20 with a solemn ceremony at the headquarters of the Council of National Liberation Fighters (CCLN), followed by a futsal tournament between national veterans and former INTERFET members.