Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern today vowed to press ahead with his official visit to Timor-Leste next week despite an apparent failed coup in which the country's president was shot and wounded.
Mr Ahern is due to leave on a two-day trip to the world's youngest nation next Wednesday during which he will outline to leading Government figures Ireland's new role in resolving global conflicts.
Dermot Ahern is due to start a two-day trip to Timor-Leste next Wednesday
Timor's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao declared a state of emergency after President Jose Ramos-Horta was shot and critically wounded by rebel soldiers in a dawn gun battle at his residence on the outskirts of the capital Dili.
Mr Gusmao was attacked shortly afterwards but escaped unhurt.
"I am scheduled to meet with the Timorese Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao, the Foreign Minister Zacarias Albano da Costa, the Council of Ministers and Opposition leaders," Mr Ahern said.
"Ireland has always been very supportive of Timor-Leste and I believe it is important that the visit goes ahead, particularly so at a time when efforts apparently are being made to destabilise the country.
"My hope is that President Ramos-Horta makes a full recovery."
Mr Ahern expressed his shock at the attacks branding them a deeply disturbing assault on the rule of law and democratic institutions in Timor-Leste.
"It is my sincere hope that calm and order can be maintained at this very difficult time for the government and people of Timor-Leste," he said.
The country, which was previously known as East Timor, won independence in 2002 after more than 400 years of occupation by Portugal and Indonesia.