| Witnessed by government leaders
and representatives from around the world, independence day celebrated East
Timor's long struggle for self-determination and freedom.
The moment brought to an end the decades of occupation
and violence that have marked the territory's long road to independence
from the colonial power of Portugal and the occupying forces of Indonesia.
President-elect Xanana Gusmao embarked on the challenge
of nation building in a country with a devastated infrastructure and economy,
his new citizens some of the poorest in Asia. Ongoing international support
will be critical to the stability and development of East Timor.
FLASH
INTRODUCTION
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