World dignitaries have gathered with the East Timorese in Dili to celebrate the nation's coming of age today. Indonesia ended its occupation of the country after the East Timorese voted for independence in 1999, and became an independent state today at 15.00 GMT.
Foreign leaders and delegations from 80 nations arrived, with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan promising the East Timorese they would not be abandoned following their decision. The United Nations administration has spent the past two and half years in the country, following the referendum.
Ten of thousands have gathered to mark the occasion at midnight, with a three-hour mass followed by fireworks displays, dancing and the release of a symbolic flock of doves. Around 100,000 were expected to take part.
Foreign visitors include Australian Prime Minister John Howard and former US President, Bill Clinton, Mr Clinton lauded the "historic struggle" of East Timor's people, saying they had paid for their freedom in blood. Approximately 200,000 East Timorese died during the Indonesian occupation.
"I want to thank the leaders and the people of East Timor, they have given all of us the chance to remember that freedom is precious and your freedom has been paid for by blood and sacrifice," Clinton said on arrival.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson, said on today that the East Timorese people's successful struggle for freedom could inspire others around the world. "East Timor is truly a beacon of hope for people around the world struggling to rebuild their societies on a basis of justice and human rights," she said in a statement.
