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Countries establish diplomatic ties with East Timor
China has claimed first place in the race to forge diplomatic ties with East Timor, the world's newest and 192nd nation.
As the predominantly Catholic nation gave thanks for an end to 450 years of often brutal colonial rule, the Vatican said it too would open diplomatic relations with the tiny territory.
Regional neighbours Australia, Japan, the Philippines and Singapore have also been quick to congratulate East Timor after an independence ceremony attended by world leaders late Sunday.
Russia has also recognised East Timor as a sovereign and independent state and says it will also establish diplomatic ties.
But as thousands of jubilant East Timorese thronged the streets of Dili, a key regional body looked set to inject a sobering note into the celebrations.
The AFP news agency reports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has reacted coolly to East Timor's application to join.
Singapore's Foreign Minister S Jayakumar says East Timor's application will be discussed at the July ASEAN Regional Forum in Brunei, where it has been invited as a "guest", but he warns there'll be no rushed decision.
21/05/2002 07:07:07 | ABC Radio Australia News
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