I would like to give thanks to all the ASEAN member States and ASEAN External Partners, the friends of our nation, and my dear people of Timor-Leste.
Today is a special moment for our country. The accession of Timor-Leste as the eleventh member of ASEAN marks a new chapter in our nation’s history - and in the story of Southeast Asia.
Our ascension to ASEAN affirms Timor-Leste’s identity as part
of the Southeast Asian family.
It represents the work of over two decades of nation-building and a commitment to regional peace, cooperation and shared prosperity.
We join ASEAN with a deep sense of responsibility and a great sense of optimism.
Membership reflects our enduring commitment to regional cooperation, good governance and peaceful relations among nations.
It also calls upon us to contribute actively to ASEAN’s shared goals of stability, prosperity and inclusiveness.
Since applying for membership in 2011, Timor-Leste has worked closely with ASEAN Member States and partners to prepare our institutions and policies for integration.
Throughout this journey we have been guided by ASEAN’s founding values of mutual respect and unity in diversity.
We are honoured to join this community of nations at a time when regional and global cooperation is more necessary than ever.
We consider Timor-Leste’s accession to be an act of regional solidarity in a time of global uncertainty.
Timor-Leste will play its part in strengthening ASEAN centrality, advancing sustainable development and ensuring that progress in our region leaves no one behind.
On behalf of the Government and People of Timor-Leste, I extend sincere appreciation to all ASEAN members and partners for their steadfast support and friendship.
Together we look forward to building a peaceful, connected and resilient Southeast Asia united in purpose and shared destiny.
Thank you very much
Source: Press Officer, Mr Augustino