27/06/2025
Timor leste
MBBS
Duration 4.5 year Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a small country in Southeast Asia, occupying the eastern half of the island of Timor, the nearby islands of Atauro and Jaco, and the Oecusse enclave on the north coast of the western half of Timor. Here’s a concise overview based on the latest available information:Geography and Population: Timor-Leste covers about 15,007 square kilometers with a population of approximately 1.36 million as of 2023. Its capital, Dili, is the largest city and main port.History: It gained independence from Indonesia on May 20, 2002, after a long struggle, becoming the first new sovereign state of the 21st century. It was previously a Portuguese colony and briefly occupied by Indonesia from 1975 to 1999.Government and Economy: It’s a unitary semi-presidential republic with President José Ramos-Horta (since 2022) and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão (since 2023). The economy relies heavily on oil and gas, particularly from offshore fields like the Bayu-Undan field, though it faces challenges with poverty and infrastructure development.Culture and Language: The population is diverse, with Austronesian and Papuan ethnic groups. Tetum and Portuguese are official languages, with English and Indonesian as working languages. About 98% of the population is Catholic, influencing cultural practices.Current Issues: Recent posts on X mention ongoing concerns about infrastructure, such as the poor condition of the Dili to Manatuto road, and economic dependency on depleting oil reserves. The country aims to join ASEAN, with progress noted in 2023 toward full membership.Travel and Tourism: Timor-Leste is known for pristine beaches, coral reefs, and hiking opportunities, but travel warnings advise caution due to crime and limited medical facilities. A valid passport and visa (or pre-arranged visa on arrival) are required for entry.