Dili Moves Forward on ASEAN Membership as Government Approves 15 Key Proposals

DILI, 12 September 2025 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Council of Ministers has approved 15 draft National Parliament Resolution Proposals, bringing the nation a significant step closer to full membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The proposals, presented by Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs Milena Maria da Costa Rangel, fulfill commitments outlined in the country’s roadmap for accession to the bloc.

The approved resolutions cover a wide range of legal and institutional agreements essential for Timor-Leste’s integration into the regional organization. The move demonstrates the country’s commitment to aligning with ASEAN’s legal frameworks, promoting regional cooperation, and strengthening its own domestic institutions.

This is an important step towards Timor-Leste’s full integration into the ASEAN community, scheduled for October 26. Among the key approvals are resolutions focused on enhancing regional legal and security frameworks.

Protocol to the ASEAN Charter on Dispute Settlement Mechanisms
ASEAN Agreement on Privileges and Immunities
Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Secretariat and its Amending Protocols
Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Development Fund (ADF) and its Protocol
Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters
ASEAN Convention on Counter Terrorism
ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children
ASEAN Agreement on Customs
Agreement and Protocols on the ASEAN Single Window
Amendment on the ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) Protocols
ASEAN Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Goods Transit (AFAFGIT) and its nine Protocols.
ASEAN Multilateral Agreement on the Full Liberalization of Passenger Air Services (MAFLPAS) and its four Protocols.
ASEAN Multilateral Agreement on the Full Liberalization of Air Freight Services (MAFLAFS) and its two Protocols.
ASEAN Energy Cooperation Agreement and its two Protocols of Amendment (1995 and 1997).
Agreement and Amending Protocol for the Establishment of the ASEAN Animal Health Trust Fund.