Joint Conference on Peace and Reconciliation between ICAP-CAPDI
"Promote Reconciliation: for Peace and Prosperity in Asia" was the theme of the joint ICAP - CAPDI Conference held at the Díli Convention Centre on 25 and 26 April 2012.
The Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão in his opening speech at conference spoke about Timor-Leste’s experience with reconciliation, noting that: "With the creation of a Commission of Truth and Friendship in Bali in a joint effort between Timor-Leste and Indonesia, we were able to further strengthen the friendship and contribute to peace in Southeast Asia. I believe that our common history and the difficult processes that we suffered and overcame may serve an example for this region and the world, representing a bastion of peace and reconciliation."
The Head of the Government of Timor-Leste emphasized that "Our struggle for peace is not yet over, and it will not be over while there are people living in poverty in our country. Nevertheless, this struggle will be easier if we all work together towards the common good. When building a State and Nation there is no room for nurturing past hatreds. The building process must be shared by all, in dialogue and with mutual understanding. All sovereign bodies, the entire civil society and all citizens must be involved in this process and share it in the same spirit”.
To read the speech of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste click here.
The founder of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) José de Venecia Jr., and the Centrist Democrats International Asia Pacific (CAPDI) highlighted the two examples of Timor-Leste and Cambodia, claiming they are models for Peace and Reconciliation for Asia and the World.
The Philippine politician stressed the good relationship between Timor-Leste and Indonesia as well as instances of internal reconciliation. He congratulated the country for the success of the presidential elections, which were won by Taur Matan Ruak and urged Timorese political parties to remain united to ensure the continued transition to democracy. José de Venecia Jr. said that the difficulties faced during the struggle for liberation will inspire the world as a model of sacrifice, for peace and for reconciliation, paving the foundation for development and modernization.
Also present at the conference, the Vice Prime Minister of Cambodia, H.E. Sok An, thanked the audience for the hospitality and the invitation to attend the conference in Díli "organized after the peaceful presidential elections in Timor-Leste.” He further stated:”On behalf of the Government of Cambodia I congratulate the political parties and the people of Timor-Leste for their active participation in the political process. They know how to stay on the path towards the consolidation of peace and stability, fostering national reconciliation between the Government, the people and the State. Thus, the process of creating effective administration and institutions will be faster, facilitating the Government’s task of providing basic services for the Timorese people. "
"We have already clearly seen the will of the people of Timor-Leste to withdraw their country from the rubble of war, to integrate into their regional and global community. We are proud that Cambodia intends to establish a closer relationship with Timor-Leste and welcome Timor-Leste’s ascension to ASEAN membership. I hope that the results of this joint conference will be helpful and support the promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in Timor-Leste", concluded Sok An.
This International Conference was hosted by the Government of Timor-Leste and organized by ICAPP and CAPDI.
