UN Security Council congratulates Timor-Leste on election results

While expressing concerns over the still-volatile security situation in Timor-Leste, the United Nations Security Council today lauded the Timorese people for holding credible presidential elections and Jose Ramos-Horta for his victory.

“The Security Council congratulates the Timorese people for demonstrating their strong commitment to peace and democracy, and commends the presidential candidates for the peaceful manner in which they conducted their campaigns,” the 15-member body said through a statement read out by, Jackie Sanders of the United States, which hold the presidency this month.

Mr. Ramos-Horta was sworn in on Sunday following two rounds of elections in April and May, beating out seven other candidates vying to lead the country, which the UN ushered to independence in 2002.

Looking forward to upcoming Parliamentary elections, the 15-member body pledged its continued support for the Government and people of Timor-Leste “as they embark on another step aimed at strengthening the foundations of democracy, and assume their rightful place in the community of nations,” the statement added.

At the same time the Council called upon the international community to continue to assist the Government to confront the challenges facing the country, which they said were political and institutional in nature, but exacerbated by “poverty and its associated deprivations.”

The UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), deployed following an outbreak of deadly violence last year, is helping with all aspects of the 2007 electoral processes, including technical and logistical support, electoral policy advice and verification.