PETALING JAYA: Timor-Leste's accession as a member of Asean is a historic chapter in regional cooperation, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
"A new chapter of history was created today in Kuala Lumpur as Timor Leste was officially accepted as the 11th member state of Asean, in conjunction with the 47th Asean Summit.
"This historic step not only strengthens the Asean family but also opens a new chapter in expanding regional cooperation encompassing the economy, investment, education and digital transformation," he said in a statement on Sunday (Oct 26).
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He added that the country had great potential and was committed to moving together with other Asean member nations.
"When I visited Timor-Leste in August last year, I saw its great potential, the spirit of its people, and the commitment of its leadership to move forward together with the region.
"Once again, congratulations to Timor-Leste on this historic achievement. Together, we move forward as One Asean Family," he said.
Timo-Leste was officially admitted as Asean’s 11th member earlier on Sunday with the signing of the admission declaration in Kuala Lumpur.
