Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Membership a ‘Historic Victory’, says Freitas

KUALA LUMPUR: Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN marks a historic victory not only for its people but for the wider Southeast Asian community, said the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Bendito dos Santos Freitas.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Freitas said the milestone reflects the culmination of the nation’s decades-long struggle for independence and its commitment to regional unity.

“This is a historic moment for us, for Timor-Leste. We are finally joining ASEAN, and tomorrow, at the 47th ASEAN Summit, we will officially become part of this family,” Freitas said.

“This is a victory for us, for our people, and also for the ASEAN family. We are deeply grateful to all ASEAN stakeholders who have contributed to our journey. Membership gives us a stronger voice in politics, diplomacy, and international affairs,” he added.

Freitas said Timor-Leste’s inclusion represents the country’s deeper integration into a shared regional identity.

“We are becoming more united as one region, as one ASEAN family. For the people of Timor-Leste, this moment carries great meaning. It is not something that was simply given to us but earned through a long journey to reach where we are today,” he said.

Earlier today, Timor-Leste formally deposited its Instruments of Accession to the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ), cementing its status as the bloc’s 11th member state.