The President of Timor-Leste Discusses Pope Francis’ Visit and the Importance of Human Fraternity
President José Manuel Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste recently spoke with Vatican News about the Pope’s visit to his country and the significance of the joint Human Fraternity Document signed with Sheikh Ahmad al-Tayyeb six years prior. This document aims to foster a peaceful, inclusive, and tolerant society, values deeply cherished in Timor-Leste.
Historical Context and the Human Fraternity Document
February 4, 2025
President Ramos Horta speaks to Pope Francis during his visit to Timor-Leste.
On February 4, 2019, Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmad al-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, signed the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi. The agreement condemned religious violence and promoted tolerance, marking the first such collaborative effort between a Catholic Pope and an Islamic figure.
The UAE celebrates the February 4 anniversary annually with the Zayed Prize for Human Fraternity, bringing together global leaders and prizewinners, including Timor-Leste’s President José Manuel Ramos-Horta.
The Adoption of the Human Fraternity Document in Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste was the first nation to officially adopt the Human Fraternity Document, integrating its principles into the national curriculum. President Ramos-Horta believes that fostering a culture of human fraternity is crucial for his country’s continued development and peace.
“We pursue reconciliation, not revenge. Our path is one of no anger, no revenge, no violence, healing the wounds of the soul, of the body, and creating a peaceful, inclusive, tolerant society.”
— José Manuel Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste
The Impact of Pope Francis’ Visit to Timor-Leste
Pope Francis’ 2024 visit to Timor-Leste was an unforgettable experience, with an estimated 700,000 visitors attending events alongside the Pope. President Ramos-Horta highlighted the overwhelming turnout and the emotional response of Timor-Leste’s deeply religious population.
“People were really emotional, crying. People were desperate to touch the Pope’s hands.”
— José Manuel Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste
The visit had significant economic and cultural impacts. It served as an impromptu international marketing campaign for Timor-Leste, attracting media attention and validating the country’s reconciliation process.
Majlis on Human Fraternity and the Zayed Prize
President Ramos-Horta participated in a Majlis on Human Fraternity and the awarding of the Zayed Prize in Abu Dhabi. This event underscored the global relevance of human fraternity and the importance of addressing humanitarian crises.
“We must invest more in conflict prevention. We could have prevented October 7 and the events in Gaza. We could have avoided the escalation of tensions between Russia and NATO.”
— José Manuel Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste
Reconciliation and Leadership
The success of Timor-Leste’s relationship with Indonesia serves as a model of reconciliation worldwide. President Ramos-Horta emphasized the role of leadership in resolving conflicts peacefully.
“It boils down to leadership. Leaders are the ones that lead people to wars, leaders are the ones who prevent war, and leaders are the ones who lead people to peace.”
— José Manuel Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste’s example can inspire peace and understanding in regions plagued by ongoing conflicts, fostering a world where human fraternity is a shared value.
Conclusion
President José Manuel Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste’s reflections on the Human Fraternity Document and Pope Francis’ visit highlight the profound impact of faith, leadership, and reconciliation. These principles can help heal communities and promote peace on a global scale.
As we navigate a world fraught with conflict and humanitarian crises, the words and actions of President Ramos-Horta offer valuable insights into building a more compassionate and peaceful future.
Join the conversation: What lessons can you draw from Timor-Leste’s experience with reconciliation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.