Kao Kim Hourn, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay discuss Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Integration and 2029 Chairmanship Preparations
DILI, 04 November 2026 (TATOLI) – ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste’s full integration into the regional bloc during a meeting with Vice Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay at the ASEAN headquarters in Jakarta on November 2.
The discussions focused on Timor-Leste’s progress in meeting the remaining requirements for full ASEAN membership, including the implementation of outstanding criteria under the Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN.
Both sides also reviewed the country’s efforts to complete its accession to the remaining ASEAN Economic Agreements (AEAs) and explored ways to strengthen cooperation to ensure the effective implementation of its commitments as an ASEAN member.
Kao reiterated the ASEAN Secretariat’s readiness to continue assisting Timor-Leste in advancing its integration process and fulfilling its outstanding membership obligations.
During the meeting, Vice Prime Minister Lay briefed the ASEAN Secretary-General on the country’s progress in strengthening institutional capacity, economic development, infrastructure, security and diplomatic engagement.
He also outlined the government’s ongoing preparations for Timor-Leste to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2029, highlighting efforts to enhance national readiness to undertake the responsibilities associated with leading the regional organisation.
Vice Prime Minister Lay expressed his appreciation to Dr. Kao for his continued support and the ASEAN Secretariat’s assistance in facilitating Timor-Leste’s integration into the regional bloc.
The Vice Prime Minister, Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs, and Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay was accompanied by a delegation comprising Minister of Transport and Communications Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu, Minister of Interior, Francisco da Costa Guterres, Vice-Minister of Commerce, Augusto Júnior Trindade, and Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Roberto Sarmento de Oliveira Soares.
ATOLI
