UN Supports Dialogue in Timor-Leste
New York, May 24 2006 6:00PM
With quiet returning to Timor-Leste following recent violence, the UN Office in the country (UNOTIL) is supporting the
Government’s proposed initiative to convene a meeting with representatives of the dissident groups in order to engage in
a dialogue, a UN spokesman said today.
UNOTIL has set up a camp near the UN headquarters for some 1,000 persons seeking refuge from the violence, Stephane
Dujarric told reporters in New York.
The mission is providing tents and supplies for those people and will be seeking additional tents from UN agencies in
case they are needed, he added.
Asked about the UN’s involvement in developments in Timor-Leste, the spokesman said the world body was working closely
with the Timorese Government, encouraging them to hold a dialogue with representatives of the dissident groups to
discuss grievances and overcome the current impasse.
He added that the UN has been in contact with those countries – Australia, Portugal, Malaysia and New Zealand – that
have been approached by Timor-Leste to provide immediate support.
“We’re keeping a close eye on the situation,” Mr. Dujarric said.
ENDS