An international donors' conference in Japan will discuss giving aid for reconstruction work in East Timor.

Representatives from more than 30 countries, East Timor independence leader Xanana Gusmao, and officials from numerous aid and development agencies gathered in Tokyo for the conference.

Japan is co-hosting the meeting together with the World Bank and the United Nations.

The World Bank said that up to $300m was needed to help rebuild East Timor over the next three years.

Japan has already promised to give $100m towards the fund.

The territory suffered considerable damage when pro-Indonesian militias went on the rampage after the East Timorese voted for independence in August.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Aoki Mikio said the Japanese Government would also provide aid to non-government organisations helping East Timorese refugees and send a mission to investigate further needs.