DILI, 25 September 2025 (TATOLI) – The government today approved eight draft resolutions as part of the country’s process of joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The proposals, presented by Vice-Minister for ASEAN Affairs Milena Rangel, mark further progress in meeting the requirements of the ASEAN Accession Roadmap.
According to an official source, the approved resolutions include:
- The Revised Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the ASEAN Foundation and its amending protocols.
- The Ministerial Understanding on ASEAN Cooperation in Finance and its Protocol of Amendment, which brings Timor-Leste into the regional forum on fiscal policy and macroeconomic stability. The agreement does not create legal obligations but enhances transparency and credibility in financial management.
- The Understanding on Criteria for the Classification of the ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN), allowing Timor-Leste to fully participate in technical customs discussions, align its tariff system with regional standards, and increase transparency in trade.
- The Agreement on the Recognition of Inspection Certificates for Commercial Vehicles, which facilitates cross-border circulation, eliminates duplicate inspections, harmonizes procedures, and improves road safety.
- The Agreement on the Recognition of Domestic Driving Licenses, enabling Timorese citizens to drive temporarily in other ASEAN countries with their national licenses and granting the same right to ASEAN nationals in Timor-Leste, thereby supporting mobility, tourism, and business.
- The Memorandum of Understanding on the ASEAN Air Services Commitment with Dialogue Partners, which integrates Timor-Leste into the ASEAN Single Aviation Market, boosting connectivity, tourism, investment, and sustainable growth.
- The Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) and its Protocol of Amendment, giving Timor-Leste access to regional data, research, training, and cooperation on energy efficiency and clean energy transition.
- The Agreement on the Establishment of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Animal Health and Zoonoses (ACCAHZ), strengthening national systems for animal health and public health, improving food security, and supporting the resilience of the agriculture sector through technical assistance, training, and knowledge-sharing.
The government said these approvals represent another step towards Timor-Leste’s full ASEAN membership, expected next month.
It added that accession to these regional instruments will enable the country to participate fully in ASEAN initiatives, benefit from technical assistance, and strengthen institutional development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
