Xanana Gusmao visits Ramos Horta at Darwin hospital

Brisbane (ANTARA News) - Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao accompanied by his wife arrived in Darwin, Northern Territory on Monday to pay a visit to ailing President Jose Ramos Horta at the Royal Darwin hospital.

Timor Leste President Horta sustained serious gunshots after an attempt on his life by guerillas in Dili on February 11, 2008, led by Alfredo Reinado who was later shot dead by presidential guards.

Acting President Fernando "Lasama" de Araujo said the president on March 3 asked the government to support Reinardo`s family.

In the meantime, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd expressed concern about the attack, and also visited Horta who was still in a coma at the hospital on February 15.

Rudd who called Horta a real fighter, promised to visit him again after he gets better.

While visiting Horta on 15 February, Rudd promised to meet Gusmao as well as Fretilin party leader, Mari Alkatiri.

Rudd and Gusmao discussed efforts improve human resources as well as develop rural infrastructure in Timor Leste.

Australia had sent 270 soliders to Timor Leste to help the local military restore law and order.(*) end