Athletes from Timor-Leste celebrating the signing of the agreement between the United Nations in Timor-Leste and the National Olympic Committee.
National Olympic Committee of Timor-Leste commits to sustainable development.
News release
Pics and text for immediate use
May 10, 2019
Pics and story By Ian Mannix (UN)
Some of the best athletes in Timor-Leste are to become the face of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the heart of the country’s development agenda.
The United Nations in Timor-Leste and the National Olympic Committee today signed an agreement which will result in more young people understanding the need for sustainable development and taking leadership roles in the community.
The athletes will be known as ‘’Sports Ambassadors for Sustainable Development.’’
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste, Mr. Roy Trivedy, says sport is an important enabler of sustainable development.
‘’We are delighted to partner with the NOC in Timor-Leste. We recognize the growing contribution of sport to the realization of development and peace all over the world. Sport promotes tolerance and respect. It can foster discipline and promote team work. It can also contribute to empowerment of women and of young people, individuals and communities as well as boosting health, education and social inclusion objectives.’’
The National Olympic Committee of Timor-Leste has a philosophy to inspire and unite Timorese through Sporting Excellence and Success.
The First Vice President of the NOC, Mr. Mateus du Cruz de Carvalho says : ‘’Our organisation has sought ways to promote Timor-Leste athletes not only to best perform in their respective sports field but also to be role models in the society by leading community activities.
‘’The NOC aims to encourage participation in sports as a means of building character, keeping healthy, preserving the environment and furthering social harmony and interaction.’’
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by global leaders encourage countries to take action to end all forms of poverty, fight inequality, and tackle climate change, while ensuring that no one is left behind.
Selection of the athletes who will participate in the project is about to start, and members of the public should soon see ‘’Ambassadors for Development’’ proudly participating in the world swimming championships, world athletic championships, Asian Games and next years Tokyo Olympics.
Pic one: UN in Timor-Leste Resident Coordinator, Mr. Roy Trivedy presents
First Vice President of the National Olymopic Committee, Mr. Mateus de Carvalho with a copy of the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Pic two: Timor-Leste's world championship swimmer Imelda Belo inspires the signing ceremony.
Pic three: Mr Trivedy and Mr de Carvalho sign the agreement.
Ends
For more information contact:
Roy Trivedy Laurentino Guterres
Resident Coordinator Secretary General NOC TL
United Nations in Timor-Leste tel: 77001453
Tel: 7723 1802