Government encourages social dialogue with young people on leadership and peacebuilding

On March 26^th, 2026, in Dili, Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs Mariano Assanami Sabino led a social dialogue with young people and students under the theme “Empowering Youth with Strong Character for the Building of Peace, the State, and the Nation.” 

Following meetings with high school students in the capital and other municipalities, the session also engaged college students and other young people, aiming to strengthen their skills and character while promoting responsible leadership, active participation, and contributions to peace and national development.

Throughout the discussion, values such as responsibility, integrity, solidarity, and discipline were emphasised, alongside the importance of innovation, cooperation, and dedication to the country. The need to prepare young people for regional and international challenges was also emphasised, particularly in the context of Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN and participation in multilateral forums.

Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture Nélio Isaac Sarmento, General Coordinator of the Office of the Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs Arcanjelo Leite, and students from various universities and youth training centres in Dili attended the meeting.

This initiative is part of the Government's efforts to enhance youth engagement in peacebuilding and in the development of the state and nation.