Dili,April 30 (AseanAll)  — The President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta, joined the Apostolic Nunciature in Dili to celebrate Vatican National Day, held on April 30, 2026, at the Nunciature’s residence in Motael, Dili.

During the ceremony, the Head of State highlighted the enduring and fruitful cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Holy See, emphasizing that for the Timorese people, the principles of human dignity and rights are not merely rhetorical commitments but are deeply rooted in the nation’s identity and its history of reconciliation.

In a poignant address, the President touched upon the grave challenges facing the modern world, from the “gratuitous desecration of the laws of war” to the critical exhaustion of natural resources. Ramos-Horta issued a powerful appeal to international and commercial creditors to show “wisdom and compassion” by rescheduling or writing off the public debt of the world’s most vulnerable nations. The Head of State argued that the burden of debt prevents essential investments in education and health, calling for a spirit of shared responsibility to break cycles of poverty and instability.

Reflecting on Timor-Leste’s journey, Ramos-Horta reminded the gathered dignitaries that human rights serve as an essential safeguard against the corruption and violence that arise from unconstrained power.

Ramos-Horta concluded by reiterating his commitment to global peace and unity, drawing on the Timorese ethos of recognizing humanity even in one’s adversaries. The celebration ended with a toast to the continued friendship between Timor-Leste and the Vatican and the shared pursuit of the well-being of all peoples.