E Timor leader offers sympathy over fires, delays visit

Posted 4 hours 31 minutes ago

East Timorese President Jose Ramos-Horta has delayed a planned state visit to Australia after bushfires killed at least 131 people, expressing "condolences" over the disaster.

"On behalf of the Timorese people, I would like to extend my deep condolences to our brothers and sisters of Australia, especially to those who have lost their loved ones and properties in this tragedy," Dr Ramos-Horta said in a statement.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Australia."

The Nobel Laureate's planned official visit from February 10-15 would be delayed until later in the year "due to the tragic circumstances many Australians are facing at this time, and the Australian Government's focus on relief efforts," the statement said.