DILI, 04 april 2024 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste together with The ASEAN Secretariat, on Wednesday officially launched the Future Leaders for ASEAN (FLBA) Program.
The program was launched by Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, in the presence of the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Kao Kim Hourn, members of the government, diplomatic corps, representatives from the private sector, international agencies, civil society, and academia.
In his speech, Gusmão said that developing the next generation of leaders is crucial for any country: “It is particularly important for Timor-Leste now as we embark on our final preparations to join ASEAN.”
“I would also like to acknowledge and congratulate the first cohort of participants in the Timor-Leste Future Leaders for ASEAN program. Your selection for this program is both an investment in your future, and in the future of our nation,” he said.
Gusmão emphasized that this program is a sign of Timor-Leste’s commitment to regional integration and cooperation, and it marks a significant step in the country’s journey towards national development.
“Timor-Leste’s development is dependent more than ever before on our human resources and the empowerment of our human potential. Which is why we are investing in the next generation of leaders,” Prime Minister said.
The 9th Constitutional Government has identified human development and social capital as priority areas for investment, along with economic diversification, infrastructure development, and good governance.
“We believe that our membership of ASEAN will augment these priorities. Timor-Leste is a young nation with untapped potential. Our young people – including the future leaders here today – will play an essential role in accelerating our progress. We are committed to creating opportunities that enable young people to fulfil their potential. And we are taking concrete action,” Gusmão added.
Prime Minister emphasized that investing in future leaders will help Timor-Leste better navigate global challenges, as well as foster innovation and contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future: “The Future Leaders for ASEAN Program is one way we are investing in our leadership, as we look to integrate further into our region. To the 100 future leaders present here today, I wish you all a successful leadership program and a rewarding engagement with our ASEAN neighbors.”
“We are honored to have His Excellency ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn with” in launching of the program. We are grateful for your visit as a demonstration of ASEAN’s support for Timor-Leste’s journey towards ASEAN membership. Thank you very much for joining us and for your guidance and advice,” said Gusmão.
In his statement, Hourn stressed that ASEAN has long championed the empowerment and participation of youth, acknowledging them as key stakeholders in the pursuit of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development: “ASEAN has always considered the youth as current and future leaders, change makers, innovators, and influencers as well as workforce and the catalysts for economic, social and cultural development. Through various youth-focused initiatives, forums, and platforms, ASEAN has provided avenues for young leaders to make known their aspirations, exchange ideas, and contribute meaningfully to the regional agenda.”
“The importance ASEAN gives to the Youth Sector is manifested through a comprehensive framework for fostering the holistic development and empowerment of youth across ASEAN Member States. The focus is on initiatives to enhance educational opportunities, promote youth employment, foster entrepreneurship, and nurture leadership skills,” he said.
Hourn highlighted that Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN represents not only a significant milestone for the nation but also a unique opportunity to amplify youth engagement and collaboration across the region: “As a young and vibrant nation, Timor-Leste would surely bring fresh perspectives as well as innovative ideas to the ASEAN Community. In this regard, I truly appreciate Timor-Leste’s participation in ASEAN meetings on education, youth, and sports, and capacity-building activities and regional dialogues.”
“It is worth noting that Timor-Leste has actively participated engaged the ASEAN Youth Sector, including as an Observer during the 12th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Youth (AMMY) and Related Meetings held in June 2023, and the ASEAN Youth Interfaith Camp 2023, among others. Timor-Leste’s involvement in these activities demonstrates its enthusiasm and seriousness in meeting its commitments in the Roadmap towards full membership to ASEAN,” he said.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
