Kuala Lumpur: In a landmark development for Southeast Asia, East Timor (Timor-Leste) has officially become the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), fulfilling a long cherished ambition of the young nation. The formal accession took place during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where leaders from the regional bloc gathered to celebrate this historic moment. The ceremony saw participation from dignitaries including Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, China’s Premier Li Qiang, and Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the event.
East Timor, Asia’s youngest nation with a population of approximately 1.4 million, has aspired to join ASEAN for over a decade. The country first applied for membership in 2011 and was granted observer status in 2022. Despite its modest economy, with a GDP of around $2 billion, ASEAN membership is seen as a gateway to enhanced trade, investment, and economic growth, providing Timor-Leste with opportunities to strengthen its regional integration and global presence.
President Jose Ramos-Horta, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a longtime advocate of ASEAN integration, hailed the accession as both a diplomatic achievement and a testament to the nation’s resilience. He highlighted that joining ASEAN underscores Timor-Leste’s commitment to regional cooperation, peace, and stability. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao described the event as a “historic victory”, emphasizing that this milestone reinforces the country’s democratic journey and strategic importance in the region.
While the economic benefits of ASEAN membership may unfold gradually, analysts view Timor-Leste’s inclusion as a strategic move to bolster its geopolitical profile, attract foreign investment, and provide a platform for collaborative engagement on regional issues. The nation’s membership is also expected to enhance diplomatic relations with neighboring countries and foster a stronger sense of solidarity within Southeast Asia.
The accession marks a new chapter in Timor-Leste’s journey, reflecting its aspirations for growth, peace, and active participation in the Southeast Asian community. As the 11th member of ASEAN, the country is poised to leverage its position to contribute to regional development and stability, while continuing its efforts to strengthen democracy and prosperity at home.
This historic inclusion not only celebrates Timor-Leste’s achievements but also highlights the expanding role of ASEAN as a unifying platform for emerging nations in the region, fostering collaboration, economic opportunity, and shared commitment to peace.