I will tomorrow take up Prime Minister Gusmao's invitation to visit East Timor.
In East Timor I will meet Prime Minister Gusmao, Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo, the Parliament and the Opposition.
I will also meet Brigadier Baker and others from the Australian-led International Stabilisation Force.
I will also meet with senior officers from the Australian Federal Police.
This visit will give me an opportunity to hear a first-hand assessment of the security situation and longer-term challenges from Prime Minister Gusmao and others on the ground in Dili.
I will use the visit to reiterate Australia's support for the East Timorese Government and for democracy in East Timor.
The Government and people of Australia were deeply disturbed by the attempted assassination of the President of East Timor, Dr Jose Ramos-Horta, and Prime Minister Gusmao.
At this difficult time, it is important that Australia sends a clear message that we are absolutely determined to respond effectively to the request from the East Timorese Government for assistance.
We want to play our part in ensuring security and stability, and restate our support for long term economic growth and development in East Timor.
CANBERRA