DILI, 28 february 2022 (TATOLI) – The Director-General of Affairs related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MNEC), Milena Rangel revealed that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) recognizes only eight professions that do not impede the free movement of people between its member states.
They are – engineer, architect, accountant, doctor, dentist, nurse, surveyor and tourism professionals.
Milena Rangel rejects, however, that the information conveyed announcing that, if Timor-Leste becomes a member of ASEAN, there would be total freedom in the mobility of citizens.
“ASEAN is an organization based on very specific rules. Therefore, this regional organization does not allow free movement between citizens within ASEAN, except for these eight professions”, She stressed.
As an example, the director mentioned the case of Timor-Leste, which has sufficient human resources in the health sector, which does not oblige the Government to request medical personnel from ASEAN members, even though this profession is included in the requirements for sending of workers between member states affected by the organization.
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Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Maria Auxiliadora/Rafy Belo
Translator: Camilio de Sousa
