As Timor-Leste prepares for its accession to the ASEAN, the importance of developing high-quality human resources has become increasingly evident. Recognizing this need, the Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs launched the Timor-Leste’s Future Leader for ASEAN Program. This initiative aims to cultivate capable youth leaders who can effectively collaborate with ASEAN institutions.
A critical component of this program involves future leaders visiting ASEAN member states to strengthen relationships and showcase the strengths and potential of Timor-Leste. This outreach not only fosters diplomatic ties but also highlights Timor-Leste’s readiness to contribute to the regional community.
As part of these preparatory efforts, the Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MNEC), dispatched a delegation of ten individuals from the Future Leaders for ASEAN (FLBA) program to Cambodia. During their time in Cambodia, the delegation had the privilege of engaging with top government officials, including the Vice Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, and Secretaries of State for Arts and Culture, Commerce, and Tourism. They also interacted with representatives from the private sector and academia.
These high-level discussions provided the delegation with invaluable insights into Cambodia’s economic development, sustainability initiatives, and human resource strategies. The delegation learned firsthand how Cambodia has achieved economic growth and developed robust human resources and sustainability practices.
The 10-day immersion program was meticulously designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of Cambodia’s academic, investment, and economic landscapes. Through strategic engagements and meetings, the FLBA team worked to establish partnerships with various government institutions, public sector entities, and academic bodies.
These experiences are not only a significant learning opportunity for the delegation but also a crucial step in preparing Timor-Leste for its ASEAN accession. By fostering these international relationships and gaining deep insights into regional best practices, Timor-Leste is positioning itself to become an active and valuable member of ASEAN.
By: CDTL
