Government Approves Timor-Leste’s Accession to ASEAN Charter

DILI, 04 August 2025 (TATOLI) – The Council of Ministers has approved a draft resolution ratifying Timor-Leste’s accession to the Charter of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The draft, presented by Deputy Minister for ASEAN Affairs Milena Maria da Costa Rangel, marks a critical step in Timor-Leste’s journey toward full ASEAN membership.

The ASEAN Charter, adopted in Singapore on November 20, 2007, represents the common values and aspirations of the peoples of Southeast Asia in favor of peace, stability, economic progress, and the protection of fundamental rights.

Formal accession to the ASEAN Charter will enable Timor-Leste to fully exercise its rights and assume its responsibilities as a member of the organization, ensuring its active participation in regional bodies and contributing to the deepening of cooperation and integration in Southeast Asia.

Approval and ratification of the ASEAN Charter is a condition for membership in ASEAN.

TATOLI