Comunicado do World Bank

WASHINGTON, May 25, 2006 – World Bank President Paul Wolfowitz issued the following statement today on the current security situation in Timor-Leste.

“My colleagues and I are deeply saddened by the current crisis in Timor-Leste. On behalf of our staff and our board, I would like to express the World Bank’s sincere hope that the situation will soon be resolved and peace and tranquility restored.

Timor-Leste has made tremendous strides in the very short time since its first free elections in 2001.

Quick action on the part of the Timorese leadership is needed to resolve the current conflict in a peaceful and constructive way to ensure that the progress that has been made is not lost.

The World Bank stands ready to support the people of Timor-Leste to continue its path of peace and continued development.

“As I said during my visit there in April, Timor-Leste has achieved much thanks to the country’s sensible leadership and sound decision making which have helped put in place the building blocks for a stable peace and a growing economy.

It seemed to have achieved a degree of social and political harmony and stability that was remarkable against the background of the country’s tragic history. I hope that the current situation will be resolved soon so that Timor-Leste’s future can be one of hope, opportunity, and peace. ”