Gusmao to Celebrate Christmas in West Timor

Wednesday, 07 December, 2005 | 00:39 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara:East Timorese President Xanana Gusmao is to make an official visit to West Timor, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), for five days, from December 23-27.

East Nusa Tenggara Social Affairs office head Frans Salem said in Kupang on Tuesday (06/12) that the local government and the Indonesian Military (TNI)/National Police had met to prepare the welcoming ceremony on Gusmao's arrival. "Some preparations related to this visit have been made including a security guarantee," Salem stated.

The plan of Gusmao's visit was conveyed by Indonesian Ambassador in Dili through direct contact with East Nusa Tenggara Governor Piet A. Tallo last weekend. The official visit will be made as the continuation of the East Timorese reconciliation mission, particularly the pro-integration and pro-freedom groups that were once stopped for some time.

Previously, Gusmao visited West Timor and met with thousands of pro-Indonesian East Timorese in Atambua, North Central Timor and Kupang in 2001.

(Jems De Fortuna-Tempo News Room)