Megawati urged to visit E. Timor

Megawati urged to visit E. Timor

EAST TIMOR: East Timor's elected president Xanana Gusmao said on Saturday he was determined to invite President Megawati Soekarnoputri to attend the independence celebrations of the former Indonesian province.

Speaking during a stopover in Bali on his way to Europe, Xanana said Megawati's presence was crucial in order to lay a solid foundation for bilateral ties.

"We hope she can attend the independence declaration of Timor Lorosae on May 20," said Xanana, as quoted by Antara news agency.

However, Xanana conceded that due to the heavy schedule in the coming weeks he was uncertain whether he could personally convey the invitation or send a special representative to Megawati.

He added that Megawati's presence would send a clear message to the international community that both countries had buried old wounds and were eager to look to the future. -- JP