Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Foreign Affairs Committee Acting Chairman Howard Berman and other members of Congress sent the following letter to President José Ramos-Horta, the President of East Timor, after the recent attempt on his life. Ramos-Horta was a leading figure in his country's liberation movement and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996 for his efforts to bring freedom and human rights to his country.
Below is a text of the letter:
February 19, 2008
His Excellency José Ramos-Horta
President
Democratic Republic of Timor Leste
c/o Embassy of Timor Leste
4201 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008Dear Mr. President:
We are writing to express our deep distress over the injuries you sustained as a result of the recent attempt on your life. Our shock to hear of this deplorable attack was matched only by our concern for your well-being and hope for your speedy recovery.
By voting for independence in 1999, the people of Timor Leste placed their faith in democracy. Please be assured that the United States remains deeply committed to supporting your young government. The bravery of the people of Timor Leste in achieving independence and in building their nation is an inspiration and commands continued admiration and support from the world.
Your personal role in the unfolding story of Timor Leste is heroic, and we are thankful for your continued leadership. You helped bring the cause of the East Timorese to the world and, as one of the founding fathers of your nation, you helped ensure that the establishment of Timor Leste would be guided by the principles of democracy, individual liberty, and basic human rights. Your unceasing dedication to these principles as Prime Minister, and now as President, is a testament to your leadership and to your commitment to your country.
We look forward to your return to your important work and to continuing our partnership with you to help improve the lives of the people of Timor Leste.
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
NANCY PELOSI
Speaker of the HouseHOWARD BERMAN
Acting Chairman
House Committee on Foreign AffairsENI F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA
PATRICK J. KENNEDY
JAMES P. MCGOVERN
MICHAEL E. CAPUANO
BARNEY FRANK
BOBBY L. RUSH
ROBERT E. ANDREWS
HENRY A. WAXMAN
FRANK R. WOLF
MARK UDALL
ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON
MARK STEVEN KIRK
TAMMY BALDWIN
DENNIS KUCINICH