“Discrimination, disrespect and abuse towards people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity does not provide any benefit to our nation,” the Prime Minister said.

 “Everyone has the potential to contribute to the development of the nation, including members of the LGBTI community.”

 Araujo is the first Southeast Asian leader to publicly support lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and or/intersex (LGBTI) rights.

He argued for the young nation to develop its people needed to live free from violence and discrimination.

“For a nation to develop well, every young person needs to be able to grow up in an environment that provides them with protection, love, and opportunities for personal growth – regardless of their differences,” he said.

“Parents need to accept their children, and schools need to create an environment where all students are protected.

 ‘This is how we can create an inclusive nation, where everyone can participate in the development process and make the most of the independence we all fought for.

‘One for all, all for one.’

 Natalino Ornai Guterres, Director of Hatutan Youth and an LGBTI advocate in Timor-Leste, celebrated the Prime Minister’s statement.

Guterres said he wrote to the Prime Minister asking him to become involved in the LGBTI awareness initiative.

Only hours after reaching out to him the Prime Minister agreed to record the video.

 “It means a lot because throughout this whole time, none of the government officials, let alone a Prime Minister has said anything on the issue,” he told Gay Star News.

  “The Prime Minister is a family man with an open mind… he is also aware of the issue and knows of the problem.”

 Araujo’s statement came as Dili hosted its first LGBTI Pride event and the country’s first Pride parade.