DILI, 19 february 2026 (TATOLI) — Xanana Gusmão, the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and Erywan Pehin Yusof, Brunei Darussalam’s Minister for Foreign Affairs II, met in Dili on thursday and reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to closer bilateral relations and continued support for Timor-Leste following its accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
During a courtesy meeting at the Government Palace, both sides discussed expanding cooperation and supporting Timor-Leste’s priorities and responsibilities within ASEAN.
Prime Minister Gusmão said the visit reflected Brunei’s ongoing support after Timor-Leste became a full ASEAN member.
“After we became a full ASEAN member, Brunei’s Foreign Minister came to show their desire and commitment to continue supporting us in various sectors such as petroleum, health, human resources, including other areas that require investment,” Prime Minister Xanana told reporters.
He said such assistance remains important as Timor-Leste continues working to complete several ASEAN membership requirements.
“We are pleased because they have not forgotten us and are helping us complete our ASEAN membership, where many aspects remain unfinished,” he said.
Minister Yusof described the talks as warm and productive, highlighting potential cooperation in several sectors.
He said their discussions were very friendly and that both sides had ideas to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Brunei and Timor-Leste in minerals, energy, health, and connectivity.
Yusof also congratulated Timor-Leste on joining ASEAN last year and reaffirmed Brunei’s readiness to help prepare regional meetings, including upcoming summits to be hosted in Dili.
He added that Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership is highly significant and that both countries will work together to prepare upcoming summits to be held in Dili.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Bendito dos Santos Freitas, and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Francisco Monteiro da Costa.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
