Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão said that Timor-Leste reaffirms its commitment to upholding the principles of ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and to actively participating in the three pillars central to the ASEAN Community: Political and Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural.
“Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN represents the realisation of our nation’s long-term vision to stand alongside our regional neighbours as an equal partner in building a strong, inclusive, and resilient Southeast Asia.
This moment reflects the collective dedication and hard work of our government, our people, and our ASEAN partners,” stated Prime Minister Gusmão in a press statement issued through the Timorese Governmental Portal.
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to the governments of ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat, and partners for their full support and guidance during Timor-Leste’s accession process.
“As the newest member state of ASEAN, Timor-Leste seeks to contribute to the shared objectives and aspirations of the ASEAN Community, to foster economic growth, social progress, and cultural development throughout the region,” the Prime Minister emphasised.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the Government of Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, for its leadership, guidance, and steadfast commitment in facilitating Timor-Leste’s smooth transition toward full membership.
PM Gusmão also praised the long struggle and efforts of the State, the people, and all institutions whose contributions made possible Timor-Leste’s positive accession as a permanent member.
Meanwhile, Joaninha de Jesus, an academic from the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL), Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Department of International Relations, said that Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN reflects the success of both the State and the Timorese People, as the country has met all the criteria set by the regional association.
“The 26th of October marks a great success for us, in Timor-Leste becoming a full ASEAN member. But we must now look at what products and goods we can prepare to promote in the ASEAN regional market. Another key aspect is security and ensuring that everyone lives in peace.
There are also elements of the green economy and blue economy that align with ASEAN’s standards. Finally, our education curriculum must also adapt to strengthen innovation in science and technology.”Since the establishment of ASEAN through the Bangkok Declaration in 1967, the regional organisation now comprises eleven (11) member countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.
