Statement by the Presidency on the inauguration of José Ramos-Horta as the new Prime Minister of Timor-Leste

Press release 228/2006
10 July, 2006

The Presidency of the European Union welcomes the inauguration of Mr José Ramos-Horta as the new Prime Minister of Timor-Leste. The appointment is an encouraging move forward after weeks of political instability and violence.

The Presidency expects that the new cabinet of ministers will be formed soon and that the new Government can start its work without delays. The new Government will face immediate challenges in the stabilisation of the nation, reconciliation between all sides, preparing for the elections in 2007 and addressing needs of the internally displaced persons. The elections in 2007 are of crucial importance to the strengthening of the democracy in Timor-Leste.

The Presidency would like to refer to the European Union Council declaration of 16 June 2006 which underlined the continued support of the European Union to the people of Timor-Leste and the leading role of the United Nations in assisting Timor-Leste.