DILI, 14 may 2024 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, on monday, met with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Milena Rangel and members of the “Future Leaders for ASEAN” team to discuss Timor-Leste’s progress towards joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
In an interview after the meeting, President Horta expressed his appreciation for the government’s efforts to fulfil the roadmap for ASEAN membership.
‘Joining ASEAN is not just about the diplomatic approach, but also about national economic development, which has become the first pillar of this agenda,’ said the President. “As Timor-Leste prepares to join ASEAN in 2025, our government needs to thoroughly review all requirements to meet the organization’s objectives.”
Horta underlined the importance of the “Future Leaders for ASEAN” program to prepare future leaders to address the challenges of regional integration.
The President’s statement shows Timor-Leste’s national priority placed on ASEAN accession as a means to promote economic growth and development through regional cooperation and market access.
The Vice Minister and the “Future Leaders for ASEAN” team also briefed the Head of State on their efforts to align policies and infrastructure with ASEAN requirements ahead of the targeted 2025 accession date.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de SA
Editor: Filomeno Martins
