JAKARTA, 11 December 2025 — H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, concluded his working visit to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today, marking Dili’s high-level engagement with ASEAN following its full integration as the 11th Member State of ASEAN.
The visit featured series of significant events, such as a symbolic tree planting ceremony, a high-level meeting with the Secretary-General of ASEAN and with the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) of ASEAN, the official presentation of the “Icon of Timor-Leste” to ASEAN, and the unveiling of country’s national emblem at the ASEAN Secretariat/ASEAN Headquarters.
A key highlight of the visit was the Policy Speech of Prime Minister Gusmão, delivered before members of the diplomatic community in Jakarta, representatives from ASEAN-associated Entities and Centres, academia, business leaders, and the ASEAN Secretariat staff. Speaking on the theme “Opportunity and Responsibility: Timor-Leste in ASEAN,” the Prime Minister highlighted that, “We are strengthening our national laws, regulations, and institutions to ensure smooth integration across all three ASEAN pillars – political, security, economic, and social culture. We are also aware that ASEAN membership brings with it the responsibility to contribute positively to our regional solidarity.’’
‘’No longer do the demoralized stand alone. We are now part of the regional political and economic architecture. ASEAN creates a space for dialogue, trust, and friendship between leaders and between countries,’’ he concluded.
In his opening remarks, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, extended his gratitude and appreciation to the leadership of Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister and his vision for Timor-Leste’s future in ASEAN. “Today’s occasion is profoundly historic, as it marks the first visit of a leader of the newest ASEAN Member State to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat,” stated SG Dr. Kao. “This visit powerfully signifies Timor-Leste’s deep commitment to ASEAN and stands as a testament to Dili’s pivotal step into the fold, strengthening the region’s integration and collectively shaping the future of Southeast Asia.”
The successful working visit by Prime Minister Gusmão to the ASEAN Headquarters/ ASEAN Secretariat symbolised the culmination of Timor-Leste’s committed journey towards Dili’s historic accession to ASEAN, on 26 October 2025. The accession was a significant milestone for Southeast Asia’s youngest nation, reflecting its resilience, post-conflict development, and regional integration.
View the full policy speech here.
