Ramos-Horta returns after attempt on life

DILI, Timor-Leste, April 17 (UPI) -- Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta returned safely to the capital of Dili after requiring two months of recovery because of an assassination attempt.

Ramos-Horta spent the last 67 days recovering in Darwin, Australia, after suffering critical gunshot wounds in an attack by rebel soldiers at his home in Dili on Feb. 11. The United Nations announced strengthened security would be in place for the president on his arrival and afterwards. The U.N. envoy to the country called on the young nation to use Ramos-Horta's return as a way to strengthen a commitment to stability and peace, the United Nations reported.

U.N. Special Representative Atul Khare offered Ramos-Horta, a co-winner of the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize, continued U.N. support as he resumes his duties.

"I look forward to continuing the U.N.'s work with the president in promoting democratic governance, strengthening the rule of law, supporting the review and reform of the security sector, and furthering socioeconomic development," Khare said in a statement. "President Horta's return is an opportunity for Timorese society to pull together. … Sustained peace depends upon the commitment of everyone."