Speaking during a restoration of independence commemorative celebration in Tasi Tolu on Sunday, Gusmao urged citizens to take precautions and practice social distancing and reduce gatherings to limit virus spread.

During the speech Gusmao said he understood the challenges on-going restrictions to limit the virus spread was having on people’s daily lives, but he encouraged people to remain “resilient” to beat the virus.

Gusmao also said Timor-Leste faced three problems,  “one is covid, one is the consequence of natural disaster and the other is political problem.”

The former President’s comments came as Timor-Leste recorded 156 new infections and two deaths in the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 13 since the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020.

According to Xanana the pandemic Covid-19 is not only the problem of Timor-Leste but “also the problem of the world”.

Strict stay-at home restrictions aimed at stemming the spread of COVID-19 in Dili remain until May 30.