Voting is underway in a presidential runoff in Timor-Leste, previously known as East Timor.

Former President Jose Ramos-Horta was the frontrunner in the first round of voting last month. He was a leader in the country's independence movement and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996. He is facing incumbent President Francisco Guterres Lu Olo.

Ramos-Horta spoke to reporters after he cast his vote in the capital Dili on Tuesday. He said that he wants the country to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in one or two years and invite foreign investment.

Lu Olo voted at a different polling station. He said he plans to cooperate with all political parties and maintain peace and stability in the country.

Timor-Leste gained independence in May 2002. It was previously controlled by Portugal and Indonesia. It is said that about 30 percent of the population lives in poverty. Campaign discussions focused on revitalizing the pandemic-hit economy and making industries less reliant on natural resources.

A 34-year-old man said many people are looking overseas for jobs. He said he wants more opportunities to be created in the country.

Vote counting will start immediately after polling stations close on Tuesday at 3 p.m., local time. Preliminary results are expected to be available in a few days.

The runoff is taking place because none of the 16 candidates obtained the majority needed to win in the March 19 presidential election.