TIMORESE LEADERSHIP OFFERS CONDOLENCES AT US MISSION

SRSG Sergio Vieira de Mello, Cabinet Member for Foreign Affairs José Ramos-Horta, independence leader Xanana Gusmão and Chief Minister Designate Mari Alkatiri today returned to East Timor after a two-day official visit to Indonesia. Immediately upon their return, the delegation went to the United States mission in Dili to express their condolences and sympathy in person for the victims of Tuesday's terrorist attacks.

In a letter sent yesterday to US Secretary of State Colin Powell, the East Timorese leadership said: "No amount or formulation of words can properly convey the sympathy we and the people of East Timor feel for the victims of this appalling crime, their families and the people and Government of the United States."

"While this fledging country is unfortunately in no position to offer much in the way of material support, what it can offer in abundance, and which it does with all its heart, is moral support to a true friend in its time of need."

Since yesterday, East Timorese and expatriates have been leaving flowers and other offerings at the US mission in Dili.