DILI, 14 July 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito Freitas, participated as an observer in the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where high-level discussions focused on global security challenges.
The forum brought together foreign ministers and top diplomats from countries including the United States, China, Russia, Canada, Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, India, and all member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The agenda covered a wide range of critical issues such as global security threats, cybersecurity, maritime security, sustainable development, denuclearization, the situation in Myanmar, tensions in the South China Sea, and other strategic concerns.
“The ARF is a vital platform that brings together leaders from the East Asia Summit and ASEAN foreign ministers to address pressing global challenges, including international security, cybercrime, maritime safety, and sustainable development,” said Minister Freitas in a statement shared with Tatoli.
He emphasized that Timor-Leste’s participation underscores its strong commitment to defending universal values such as human rights, justice, freedom, and self-determination—principles the country sees as essential to building a peaceful and secure world.
“Timor-Leste’s position is firm: we will continue to uphold universal principles of human rights, justice, and the right to freedom and independence under the rule of law, particularly in the global effort to promote peace and international security,” Freitas stressed.
The Minister added that several participating countries acknowledged and appreciated Timor-Leste’s ongoing support for multilateral efforts, particularly through its favorable votes on United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
