DILI, 12 May 2026 (TATOLI) — U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Timor-Leste on the 24th anniversary of the Restoration of Independence, while also praising the country’s recent accession as a full member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
President and Nobel Peace Laureate José Ramos-Horta received the congratulatory letter, dated May 6, 2026, through the United States Embassy in Dili ahead of Timor-Leste’s May 20 national celebrations.
“As Timor-Leste marks the anniversary of its Restoration of Independence on May 20, I extend my congratulations to you and the people of Timor-Leste,” said Trump.
He said the partnership between the United States and Timor-Leste reflected both countries’ shared commitment to promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region. “I am proud that our two nations work closely together in defense and security, economic affairs, and beyond. We value the progress we have made together,” Trump stressed.
“We also congratulate Timor-Leste on achieving full membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations this past year – a historic milestone that reflects your nation’s growing role in the region. May your national celebrations be filled with joy,” Trump wrote.
President Ramos-Horta offered heartfelt thank you to President Donald Trump and the American people, framing the letter as a tribute to the Timorese spirit of resilience.
“On behalf of the people of Timor-Leste who fought for and cherish our independence, I thank President Donald J. Trump for his warm congratulations letter. His acknowledgment of our ASEAN membership is not just a recognition of our government’s efforts, but of every Timorese citizen who believed that our nation could take its rightful place among the family of nations. The United States has stood with us through struggle and peace, and this message reaffirms that enduring friendship,” stated President J. Ramos-Horta.
For the people of Timor-Leste, this recognition arrives at a moment of profound national pride. Having rebuilt the nation from the ashes of conflict, Timor-Leste now stands as a sovereign and respected member of the international community, with ASEAN membership representing a decades-long aspiration finally realized.
TATOLI
