President Barroso condemns the attack against President Ramos Horta and PM Gusmão of Timor-Leste
The President of the European Commission, José Manuel Durão Barroso, condemned in the strongest terms the attacks
earlier today against President José Ramos Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão of the Democratic Republic of
Timor-Leste. President Barroso expresses the solidarity of the European Commission with the people and the
democratically elected institutions of Timor-Leste.
Following the failed attacks, President Barroso said:
"I am relieved that President Ramos Horta has survived this brutal attack against him and against the young democracy of
Timor-Leste. And I am equally happy that Prime Minister Gusmão is in safe condition and that he has confirmed that the
situation in Dili is under control. In these difficult hours, I want to reiterate to the people of Timor-Leste the deep
solidarity of the European Commission. We will continue to stand firmly with the democratic institutions and to face
together the challenges ahead, helping the Timorese institutions to consolidate democracy and the rule of law and
supporting economic and social development. We also praise the crucial task of the United Nations Police (UNPol) and the
International Stabilisation Force (ISF)."
ENDS