Dubai, 23 May 2024 — Timor-Leste participated in the 20th Asia/Oceania Region Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport (AORIM), held in Dubai on 22–23 May 2024. The meeting brought together ministers, government officials, and representatives from National and Regional Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs and RADOs) across the Asia/Oceania region to promote clean and fair sport. The Timor-Leste delegation included Mr. Nelyo Isaac Sarmento, Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Culture, Mr. Cesarino da Silva, Executive Secretary of the National Sport Commission, and Ms. Kerry Galhos, Anti-Doping Program Manager.
The meeting, co-chaired by Dr. Mai Ahmed Sultan Essa AlJaber, President of the UAE National Anti-Doping Agency (UAE NADA), focused on implementing the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards, strengthening the governance and operational independence of NADOs, and supporting athlete education programs under the principle of “Educate before Doping Control.” Discussions also addressed legal frameworks, funding, and regional cooperation to uphold clean sport.
The meeting highlighted upcoming major events in the region, including the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain (October 2025) and the Asian Youth Para Games in Qatar (December 2025), emphasizing the importance of pre-event education for athletes and support staff. Timor-Leste’s participation reflects the country’s commitment to anti-doping initiatives and support for regional efforts to maintain the integrity of sport, with plans to attend the 21st Asia/Oceania Ministerial Meeting in 2026.
