The President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, awarded the Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment (MPIE), Eng. Gastão Francisco de Sousa, with the Medal of the “Order of Timor-Leste”, in recognition of his dedication and significant contribution to the preparation and realization of the historic visit of His Holiness Pope Francis in September 2024.
The award was granted in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 88/2025, signed on 2 September 2025.
In addition to Minister Gastão de Sousa, President Ramos-Horta also posthumously conferred the Insignia of the Order of Timor-Leste to the late Salesian priests Fr. Afonso Nascher, SDB and Fr. Luiggi Pietro, SDB, in recognition of their service and commitment to the Church and Timorese society.
During the ceremony, the President also presented Certificates of Commendation to institutions and entities directly involved in organizing the Papal visit, including the High Commission led by the Minister of State Administration, H.E. Tomás Cabral.
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