Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta shares a moment with Taylor’s University President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Barry Winn, during his visit to the campus. -- Photo: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta stated that the country is dedicated to playing a positive role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
Ramos-Horta stated that Timor-Leste aspires to remain peaceful, tolerant, and resilient despite ongoing regional challenges.
"I believe Asean leaders will appreciate that we have kept our country peaceful, an oasis of tranquillity and tolerance, and we want to contribute to peace and stability in the region,” he said.
He acknowledged the growing complexity within Asean, particularly the prolonged crisis in Myanmar, which he described as "catastrophic”, during his speech after being appointed as an Honorary Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University.
He expressed hope that Asean can renew its efforts to find a peaceful solution through inclusive dialogue involving all parties, including the Myanmar military, ethnic armed groups, the National Unity Government (NUG), and the opposition.
Drawing from decades of engagement with Myanmar, Ramos-Horta emphasised the need to resolve the plight of displaced communities.
"You cannot build a peaceful, fair, and just society while discriminating against and killing your people.
"We cannot forget the Rohingya people. Any political settlement must include their safe and dignified return.”
He believes Asean can play a key role as a bridge-builder between rival superpowers, rather than being swayed by or falling under the influence or manipulation of any one of them.
Ramos-Horta expressed confidence in Asean’s ability to take the lead on regional challenges, highlighting his firm trust in Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership and Asean’s track record.
He believes that meaningful progress may be achieved in the coming months, offering real hope for the region.
Ramos-Horta arrived in Malaysia on a private visit on Tuesday, which will run until June 22, aimed at reinforcing the historical ties between Timor-Leste and Malaysia.
This visit builds on Malaysia’s vital support during Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence and its ongoing partnership in regional development efforts.
On June 18, he held a meeting with Anwar at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Putrajaya, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in various strategic areas, including Timor-Leste’s regional integration efforts. - Bernama
