Government of Timor-Leste

On November 23^rd, 2024, the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, officially opened the Commemorative Fair for the 49th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (RDTL), held in Lifau, in the Special Administrative Region of Oe-Cússe Ambeno (RAEOA – acronym in Portuguese). The celebrations, under the theme “Proud of our identity and culture, we build a future of freedom, justice and hope for our People”, aim to honour the historic milestone of the unilateral proclamation of independence, which took place on November 28^th, 1975. 

 During his opening speech, the Prime Minister called on the people to leave behind past grievances, highlighting the reconciliation between Timor-Leste and Indonesia as an inspiring model for the world. “I urge everyone to forget everything that happened in the past because the reconciliation promoted by Timor-Leste with Indonesia is an example for the whole world”, he said. 

Xanana Gusmão also emphasised the importance of generously welcoming the international guests present, including former Indonesian generals, stressing the symbolism of this gesture to reinforce Timor-Leste's commitment to peace and harmony between peoples. “We must show political maturity and welcome these people with generosity because it will be a great example to the world”, urged the Head of Government. 

The Prime Minister also emphasised that the celebrations are not just a festivity but an opportunity to reflect on the journey of struggle and sacrifice that culminated in the country's independence. “We celebrate not to party or dance, but to reflect, especially for those who rule today, that the people won our independence with their blood and their bodies”, he emphasised. 

The Commemorative Fair, organised by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in partnership with the national and local organising committees, includes a wide-ranging cultural and recreational programme. It highlights exhibitions of local products, musical performances between Hamlets (aldeias) and schools, motorbike and car attractions, and artistic performances by national and international groups. Delegations from Indonesia will also attend the event, strengthening ties of friendship and cooperation. 

The Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister of Economic Affairs, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay; the Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister of Social Affairs, Mariano Assanami; the President of the RAEOA Authority, Rogério Tiago de Fátima Lobato; other members of the Government; Members of the Parliament; local authorities, representatives of the Timor-Leste Defence Forces (F-FDTL) and the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL), and other special guests and the public attended the opening ceremony. 

The Minister of State Administration and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Tomás do Rosário Cabral, thanked all the entities involved for their efforts and collaboration in organising the event, as well as the support provided by the Indonesian Embassy and Consulate, which facilitated the logistics needed to organise the event.