DILI, 15 August 2025 (TATOLI) – President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, hosted the 2025 Presidential Lecture Series II, with the themed “Timor-Leste in a Changing World: Global Foresight and Regional Integration for a Resilient Future.”
The event took place at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace and convened policymakers, diplomats, academics, and civil society to explore Timor-Leste’s strategic path amid evolving global and regional dynamics.
As Timor-Leste prepared for full ASEAN accession, the forum provided a crucial opportunity to engage with leading voices on geopolitics and regional cooperation. The Lecture Series featured two distinguished Singaporean speakers: Professor Kishore Mahbubani, a globally renowned scholar-diplomat, and Ambassador Edward Lee, an expert on ASEAN affairs. Their discussions provided critical insights into how Timor-Leste could navigate global uncertainties while maximizing the benefits of regional integration.
By fostering dialogue between Timor-Leste’s leadership and Southeast Asia’s foremost thinkers, the forum strengthened ties with regional institutions and inspired innovative policies that aligned with the ASEAN 2045 Vision.
Professor Kishore Mahbubani, former Singaporean diplomat and Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, delivered the keynote address: “Navigating Calm and Rough Seas: The State of the World and Timor-Leste’s Path Forward.” His analysis focused on global trends and their implications for emerging nations.
Ambassador Edward Lee, a seasoned diplomat with extensive ASEAN experience, presented Singapore’s Experience and Partnership for Timor-Leste’s Seamless Integration into ASEAN 2045. His remarks outlined practical strategies for Timor-Leste to thrive within the regional bloc.
The Lecture Series examined the challenges and opportunities facing small states in an increasingly complex world. Against the backdrop of geopolitical competition, economic shifts, and climate risks, the discussions highlighted how Timor-Leste could chart a course toward stability and sustainable development. The event also emphasized the nation’s upcoming ASEAN membership, offering practical lessons from Singapore’s experience in regional cooperation and economic growth.
“Timor-Leste stands at a pivotal moment in its history—embracing ASEAN membership while navigating an increasingly complex world. This Lecture Series was a vital platform to engage with global and regional thinkers like Professor Mahbubani and Ambassador Lee, whose insights will help us forge a future of resilience, cooperation, and prosperity. Together, we must harness the opportunities of regional integration while addressing shared challenges, from climate change to economic transformation,” stated President Ramos-Horta.
The Lecture Series underscored Timor-Leste’s commitment to strategic foresight and regional collaboration as it stepped into a new era of ASEAN membership and global engagement.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
