The Prime Minister of Timor-Leste Dr Rui Maria de Araújo was conferred the 2016 WHO World No Tobacco Award by Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, at a ceremony in Dili on 4 July.
“The award acknowledges Dr Araújo’s outstanding leadership and commitment towards tobacco control. Not only did the Prime Minister take full political ownership, through direct participation he affected change at all levels. He has been instrumental in promoting anti-tobacco messages and driving the message home that the future prosperity of Timor-Leste rests on the good health of all its citizens. Dr Araújo is an inspiration across his country and the Region,” Dr Khetrapal Singh said.
“The award acknowledges Dr Araújo’s outstanding leadership and commitment towards tobacco control. Not only did the Prime Minister take full political ownership, through direct participation he affected change at all levels. He has been instrumental in promoting anti-tobacco messages and driving the message home that the future prosperity of Timor-Leste rests on the good health of all its citizens. Dr Araújo is an inspiration across his country and the Region,” Dr Khetrapal Singh said.