DILI, 21 January 2026 (TATOLI) – The Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved Timor-Leste’s participation in the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting 2026 (ASEAN SOM), scheduled for January 28, 2026, and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat), set for January 29, 2026, both in Cebu, Philippines. The proposal was presented by Deputy Minister for ASEAN Affairs, Milena Maria da Costa Rangel.
The presentation outlined the main themes to be discussed at the meetings, including the priorities of the Philippines’ ASEAN Presidency for 2026, follow-up on decisions from recent ASEAN Summits, and an assessment of the organization’s external relations, as well as regional and international issues affecting peace, security, and stability.
For Timor-Leste, the meetings carry particular significance in the post-accession context, marking the country’s transition to full and active participation within ASEAN. The government emphasized its commitment to ensuring smooth integration by strengthening institutional coordination, preparing national mechanisms, and engaging constructively in the political, security, and diplomatic processes of the regional organization.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
