In his first public comments, East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta thanked his medical staff and supporters but refrained from talking about the assassination attempt against him. Horta recorded a video message at the Australian hospital where he continues to recover from gunshot wounds. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation posted the message on its Web site Wednesday. "Today is the first time I am able to speak publicly," Ramos-Horta said, propped on an armchair with the East Timorese flag behind him. "Although I am refraining from making a political speech ... I wish to use this opportunity to thank all who prayed for me, who looked after me, who cared for me following the assassination attempt on me."

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