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. A WORD OF CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PEOPLE OF EAST TIMOR
Asian Human Rights Commission would like to congratulate the people of East Timor on finally gaining independence today. The long struggle against the recent bloody occupation by Indonesia has cost around 200,000 lives, and as a final insult on the cusp of independence the Indonesian-backed militia groups destroyed some 80% of the nation's infrastructure. Consequently, Asia's newest nation is also its poorest nation, and will require long term assistance to ensure its feasibility. AHRC remembers those who died for the freedom now enjoyed by their compatriates today, and also recognizes the prophetic role of the Church in East Timor and in particular Bishop Belo in supporting the struggle for self-determination. Surely this role should be a model for all religious groups in Asia seeking to uphold human dignity at all costs.
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Posted on 2002-05-28
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