Yemris Fointuna, Dili – A solidarity network for Timor Leste will hold a conference in Dili from Aug. 27-29 to rally international support for poverty alleviation and programs to fight injustice in the tiny country.

Solidarity activist Lita Sarmento said Wednesday that members of the network from at least 17 countries had confirmed their participation in the conference, which will coincide with the 10th anniversary of the self-determination referendum that led to Timor Leste's independence from Indonesia.

Sarmento said representatives from Australia, Canada, France, Finland, Britain, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Portugal, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste and the US were expected to give recommendations on programs to help Timor Leste prosper.

John Miller of the East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) said the conference would formulate efforts to propel development programs and protect human rights and justice in Timor Leste.

Dili is peaceful ahead of anniversary celebrations. Outside the presidential office, the flags of UN member countries were hoisted. A number of people marked the day with a visit to victims of past human rights violations.