DILI, 15 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The World Bank’s Country Representative in Timor-Leste, David Freedman, emphasized the urgent need for investment in human capital as the country prepares to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in October.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of an Agri-Food Fair organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry at Timor Plaza, Freedman emphasized the need to strengthen technical and institutional capacities across the public and private sectors, as well as within civil society.
He said that while ASEAN integration marks a strategic milestone in Timor-Leste’s development, it also brings substantial challenges, especially in human resource qualifications, underscoring the need for continuous investment in professional training across all sectors.
He added that ASEAN membership could serve as a key driver in attracting regional and international investment by boosting investor confidence.
Freedman said becoming the bloc’s 11th member sends a strong signal to investors and international partners, showing the country’s commitment to structural reforms and alignment with regional standards.
According to Freedman, Timor-Leste has made notable progress in meeting ASEAN’s requirements, especially in areas such as international trade, investment, and legal harmonization—advancements that help strengthen the legal and regulatory framework essential for full integration.
“Accession requires not only legal adjustments but also their effective implementation,” he stressed. “Security, economic, political, and socio-cultural cooperation are all critical components of this process. I believe Timor-Leste is on the right track, but continued improvement in legislation and its enforcement remains vital,” he concluded.
Journalist: Jesuína Xavier
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
