The Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, Xanana Gusmão, defended the need to deepen scientific knowledge about the country’s mineral resources to support decisions that improve people’s lives and create jobs.
“Just as we were able to make an evidence-based decision regarding Greater Sunrise [the natural gas field in the Timor Sea], supported by the best scientific, engineering and economic knowledge, we must develop the same level of understanding about the geology and natural resources of the rest of our territory,” the Timorese leader stated.
Xanana Gusmão spoke at the conference on “Geosciences for Nation-Building: Data, Resources and Resilience for Timor-Leste’s Future”, organised by the Timor-Leste Institute of Geoscience and which will run until this Friday in Dili.
The objective of the conference is to discuss and share how geosciences can contribute to sustainable development, economic growth and resilience of Timor-Leste.
“Science must serve the people. Knowledge must be transformed into decisions that improve lives, protect communities and create jobs,” stressed the prime minister.
Xanana Gusmão also said that the Government is committed to “continuing to invest in science”, with training for young people in the areas of geosciences, engineering, environment and energy and with institutions capable of “planning, regulating and deciding based on knowledge.”
“That is how our natural resources can become a cornerstone for shared prosperity and for a safer future,” he said.
During the conference, Timorese and foreign researchers, academics and sector professionals and policymakers share results of investigations, technical knowledge and innovations in the field of geosciences.
Yesterday, the day was dedicated to the role of national geological surveys in nation-building, with contributions from leaders of various geological survey institutions, including the president of Portugal’s National Laboratory of Energy and Geology, Teresa Ponce de Leão.
This Friday, participants debate geosciences, mineral resources and energy for economic growth.
