PM Gusmao: Government to regulate religion

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Independente, April 27, 2011 language source: Tetun

Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, said the Government will produce a law in order to regulate those foreigners who use tourist visas and are spreading the Jehovahs Witness religion in the country.

PM Gusmao said the recent statements of Bishop for Baucau Diocese, Monsignor Basilio do Nascimento about the existence of Jehovahs Witnesses in the country is also a concern of the state as it is a national problem.

“We have talked about this case and we will regulate religion based on the law,” PM Gusmao said.

PM Gusmao added that he will hold meetings with three monsignors in order to ask their opinion on how to regulate religion in the country, adding that there are many foreigners in the country who are using tourist visas but conducting other activities, this is because of the lack of control from the Immigration Department Police.

Foreign Affairs Minister Zacarias Albano da Costa said he is also concerned about this case and therefore he will present it in the Council of the Ministries meeting in order to find a solution to resolve this problem soon.

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