East Timorese cabinet sworn in
The main objective is to facilitate the return home of people who fled during the recent months of violence. The UN estimates there are about 150,000 internally displaced people.
Dili (AsiaNews/Agencies) - East Timorese President Xanana Gusmao has sworn in the new cabinet, a key step in the process of restoring stability to the country.
The new ministers placed their hands on the constitution and, in brief oath, promised to serve the nation.
The ceremony was witnessed by the new prime minister, Jose Ramos Horta, and his two deputies.
The new government was formed after the former prime minister, Mari Alkatiri, stepped down on June 26.
His resignation followed weeks of violence, triggered by the sacking of 600 soldiers who had complained of discrimination.
Mr Ramos Horta says the immediate task of his government is to consolidate security and put in place the necessary conditions to enable displaced Timorese to return to their homes.
The United Nations estimates there are still more than 150,000 displaced people, many of whom are staying in camps set up by the world body.
The cabinet will meet later in the day to discuss this year's budget.
The new government includes Jose Luis Guterres, the country's ambassador to the United States and United Nations, who has been appointed foreign minister.
Inacio Moreira has been given the transport and communications portfolios, Rosalia Corte-Real has been named education and culture minister, and Jose Teixeira is the new mineral and energy minister. Mr Ramos Horta says he will keep the defence portfolio.
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03/03/2008
