Socialist International denounces assassination attempts in Timor-Leste

The Socialist International strongly condemns the assassination attempts against President Ramos-Horta, who suffered life-threatening injuries, and Prime Minister Gusmao of Timor-Leste, and calls for enhanced international efforts to restore calm in the country and to ensure the preservation and strengthening of democratic governance.

Our International has long supported the people of Timor-Leste in their quest for self-determination based on democracy and respect for human rights and has continued to extend its solidarity since Timor-Leste became an independent nation in 2002.

Today, the International reaffirms its support for the work of United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and welcomes the decision of the Australian government to send further reinforcements to help United Nations policing efforts and to aid in guaranteeing peace and stability in the country during this difficult moment.

At the same time, the Socialist International calls on the international community as a whole to make every effort to assist Timor-Leste as it struggles to bridge political divisions and deepen democracy so that it can effectively address the great social and economic challenges its people continue to face.

 

Statement issued by the Socialist International, 12 February 2008