DILI, 29 august 2024 (TATOLI) – The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, believes that Timor-Leste’s presence in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will play an important role in bringing peace to Myanmar.
António Guterres made this statement after an official meeting with Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão at the government office in Dili on Wednesday.
“Timor-Leste is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO); Timor-Leste is a founder of the G7+ with growing influence in discussions at the international community and UN levels. Timor-Leste will soon become a member of ASEAN, where I hope to play a very important role so that peace can eventually reach the people of Myanmar in Myanmar as well,” UN Secretary said.
He made it clear that Timor-Leste is a highly respected voice in the UN, and it is important that the country is present at the Future Summit in New York in September.
The UN will endeavor to discuss important reforms so that multilateral institutions can respond to current problems, climate change, the challenges of artificial intelligence and its multiplicity, and the norm of conflict inequalities that exist around the world.
“We count on Timor-Leste’s voice at the upcoming summit; we count on Timor-Leste’s voice in all efforts to make our world a world that respects the UN Charter, respects international law, and respects international law where persistent inequalities and injustices can finally be faced with determination and solidarity,” he said.
On 18 april 2024, Timor-Leste affirmed its support for ASEAN’s call to stop the violence, uphold international humanitarian law, and protect all civilians, including foreign nationals. This shows that Timor-Leste is not only concerned about the situation in Myanmar but also seeks to encourage collective action from regional organizations.
The Government of Timor-Leste, through statements by high-ranking officials such as Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, has publicly condemned Myanmar’s military regime and called for the need to address the human rights crisis.
Timor-Leste’s officials have emphasized that ASEAN should take further steps to address this issue, reflecting Timor’s strong commitment to democratic values and human rights.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
