United Nations Radio

Jose Ramos-Horta, the president of Timor-Leste, returned today to the capital Dili after two months of medical treatment in Australia.

He was wounded in a shooting by rebel soldiers on February 11. The convoy of the Prime Minister was also attacked. Nobel Prize Laureate, Mr. Ramos-Horta was greeted by thousands of people as he drove to his house. The head of the UN Mission in Timor, Atul Khare, said it was "an emotional day for him". Mr. Khare is confident that the president's return will help pull the young nation together.

"I am convinced that his return will give a renewed determination to the people of Timor-Leste, and I was quite pleased to see that today all across the spectrum: young people, old people, school children - nearly 20 000 people gathered in the streets to welcome the president. I was delighted to see that leaders across the entire political spectrum had gathered there thereby showing that, in fact, his return has already contributed to the national unity."

Mr. Khare reiterated the UN's support for the country's efforts to promote democratic governance, strengthen the rule of law and further socio-economic development. Mr. Ramos-Horta's arrival was also a test of the new security arrangements for the president. From now on a joint team of the UN and national police will ensure his protection.

For UN Radio, I am Elena Vapnitchnaia.

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