UN supports dialogue in Timor-Leste

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.