DILI, 04 March 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, on Monday, met with his Indonesian counterpart Sugiono, in Jakarta, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic partnerships, border resolution, and support for Timor-Leste’s full accession to ASEAN.
“The partnership between Indonesia and Timor-Leste continues to grow in a spirit of brotherhood. We want to ensure that this cooperation provides tangible benefits for the people of both countries,” said Minister Sugiono in a statement released on Monday.
On economic cooperation, Minister Sugiono commended the increasing economic cooperation between the two countries. Indonesia remains Timor-Leste’s primary trading partner, with trade volume reaching US$391.3 million in 2024, an increase of 12.31% (YoY).
“I appreciate the progress in the Bilateral Investment Treaty negotiations. Accelerating investment permits for Indonesian businesses, including state-owned enterprises operating in Timor-Leste, is crucial to fostering closer economic cooperation,” Minister Sugiono emphasized.
During the meeting, Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment as a development partner for Timor-Leste.
He said that Indonesia is ready to strengthen its support for Timor-Leste’s national development through further collaboration. Additionally, Indonesia reiterated its support for Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN, including through capacity-building programs.
“Timor-Leste is part of the ASEAN family, and Indonesia is ready to support its full integration,” Minister Sugiono added.
In recent years, Indonesia and Timor-Leste’s development cooperation has expanded, including diplomatic training, financial management reforms, scholarships, and aquaculture development.
On border issues, both ministers committed to resolving border issues constructively, based on good neighborly relations and mutual respect.
Sugiono stressed that a complete border resolution will open economic opportunities and enhance connectivity for border communities.
Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Timor-Leste.
The two ministers also agreed to revitalize the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) as a strategic forum at the foreign ministerial level to review and develop bilateral cooperation.
TATOLI
