Minister Bendito participates in High-Level Conference of High Contracting Parties to the TAC

DÍLI, 24 July 2026 (TATOLI) – Bendito dos Santos Freitas, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, participated in the High-Level Conference of High Contracting Parties to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), held in Manila.

Bringing together foreign ministers and representatives of the TAC’s 62 High Contracting Parties, the conference provided a high-level platform for dialogue on conflict prevention and preventive diplomacy, maritime security, and emerging regional and global challenges.

Minister Bendito reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s commitment to the fundamental principles of the TAC, including the peaceful settlement of disputes, mutual respect, non-interference, and cooperation, underscoring their enduring importance in strengthening mutual trust, preserving regional peace and stability, and fostering a rules-based regional order.

The Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) was established in 1976 and embodies universal principles of peaceful coexistence and friendly cooperation among States in Southeast Asia. It is a legally-binding code for inter-state relations in the region and beyond.

The Treaty has been amended three times, in 1987, 1998, and 2010, respectively, to allow for accession by states outside Southeast Asia as well as for regional organisations whose members are sovereign states, among others.

As of October 2024, there are 55 High Contracting Parties to the TAC.

TATOLI