Lisbon – East Timorese youth rejected the foreign military base. It is one point of declaration of East Timorese Youth Congress that was held from July 10 to 15 in Dili, the capital of East Timor. They rejected a military base in East Timor because they are concerned on its negative impact, such as unstable situation in Southeast Asia and an acculturation with western culture. The congress also reflected youth's contribution and participation in successfully liberating East Timor through a referendum. Therefore, the youth's role is to develop the country.

The congress also declared statement about political, governmental and economy systems that support small industries and protect national entrepreneurs in entering international market. In terms of social and cultural fields, two national languages, namely Tetum and Portuguese, are declared. In one-decade ahead, Tetum will be stated national language.

The first youth congress since East Timor's independence was initiated by Youth Presidium Loriko Assuwain, an organization established on April 1999. The Presidium protects all mass and political organizations of East Timorese Youth.

The congress was also attended by other ten youth and students organization, such as Impettu, Renetil, Ojetil, Obslatil, and Fitun, and youth representatives from 13 districts in East Timor.