DILI, 09 March 2026 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste is hosting a seminar on the Strategic Plan of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) to strengthen understanding of regional cooperation and support the country’s integration into ASEAN.
The seminar, held at the Grand Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, runs until Wednesday and brings together public officials from various government ministries.
The event is organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with the ministry through the JICA–ASEAN Project.
Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs Milena Rangel said the seminar aims to provide guidance on the ASCC Strategic Plan and help align Timor-Leste’s national policies with ASEAN cooperation priorities.
“We will develop a regular mapping exercise to align our national development programs — including poverty reduction, gender equality, youth empowerment and universal health coverage — with ASEAN initiatives, while also addressing global challenges such as digital transformation and climate change,” Rangel said.
She added that Timor-Leste seeks to position itself not only as a participant but also as a proactive contributor to regional cooperation.
Chargé d’Affaires of the Japanese Embassy in Timor-Leste Yuki Sakai said the ASCC framework places people at the center of development and promotes human progress, resilience and inclusion.
“This meeting provides a valuable opportunity to align Timor-Leste’s priorities with the objectives of the ASCC and to jointly plan concrete steps that will benefit all Timorese,” she said.
JICA Project Chief Advisor Yuji Ono said the ASCC Strategic Plan serves as a roadmap to build a resilient and people-centered community, focusing on citizens’ well-being, human rights protection and equitable access to opportunities in education, health care, employment and social protection.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
