Jakarta, 11 December 2025 – The Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, delivered a landmark policy speech at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta, underscoring his nation’s full commitment to the regional bloc as it advances the implementation of ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Vision.
The address marked Timor-Leste’s first official participation at the Secretariat since becoming ASEAN’s eleventh Member State, a milestone hailed as the culmination of decades of aspiration.
The event drew diplomats, ambassadors, permanent representatives of ASEAN Member States, and regional stakeholders, reflecting the significance of Timor-Leste’s accession to the organisation.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Gusmão described ASEAN membership as “the realisation of a long-held dream” and “a strong affirmation of our journey as a nation.”
He emphasised that joining ASEAN symbolised Timor-Leste’s determination to move beyond its difficult past and embrace a collective future within Southeast Asia.
“It is a decisive moment that led us to look outward and recognise that we are part of a larger whole,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also expressed condolences to Indonesia following recent floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, extending solidarity from the people of Timor-Leste.
His message of empathy reinforced the spirit of regional unity and shared responsibility that ASEAN seeks to embody.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn opened the session by commending Gusmão’s leadership, noting its pivotal role in strengthening peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.
He highlighted the importance of high-level visits in shaping discourse and deepening engagement with the diplomatic corps, academia, think tanks, and the business community.
The policy speech also aligned with ASEAN’s long-term vision for 2045, which aims to build a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking community.
Gusmão pledged Timor-Leste’s active participation in this agenda, stressing collaboration in economic integration, sustainable development, and regional security.
Observers noted that Timor-Leste’s entry into ASEAN represents not only a diplomatic achievement but also an opportunity to amplify voices from smaller nations in shaping Southeast Asia’s collective future.
The speech was widely regarded as a reaffirmation of Timor-Leste’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to ASEAN’s evolving role on the global stage.
Sources: ASEAN Secretariat News, Tatoli
