President José Ramos-Horta will award the Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste to José Miguel Nunes Anacoreta Correia and Carlos Candal posthumously, and bestow the Medal of Merit to journalist Paulo Ferraz and former GNR General-Commander Lieutenant-General Carlos Manuel Mourato at a ceremony in Lisbon on Monday.
“Today, we honor the unwavering solidarity of these distinguished Portuguese personalities. Their early defense of our cause within the corridors of Portuguese democracy was vital, and this recognition is a testament to the enduring ties between our nations,” said the Nobel Peace Prize laureate in a statement.
Following the ceremony, the Timorese President will travel to Braga to receive an ‘honoris causa’ doctorate from the University of Minho, acknowledging José Ramos-Horta’s career and his contributions to peace, democracy, and development in Timor-Leste.
The ceremony will be attended by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
“This honor from the University of Minho is not just a personal distinction, but a recognition of the resilience of the Timorese people and the profound and unbreakable bond we share with Portugal,” José Ramos-Horta stated.
“From our shared history to our shared future, this visit is a testament to a partnership built on mutual respect and a joint commitment to democracy and human progress,” added the head of state.
