KUALA LUMPUR: Becoming Asean’s 11th member marks the beginning of an inspiring new chapter for Timor Leste, says Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao.
“Timor Leste joins with humility and pride,” he said when delivering his remarks after the country was officially made a member of the regional grouping on Sunday (Oct 26).
Gusmao added that for the people of Timor Leste, this is not only a dream realised, but a powerful affirmation of our journey, marked by resilience, determination and hope.
“For Asean, it is the continuation of a vision, a truly united family of nations, bound together by shared values, common aspiration and collective destiny,” he said.
“On behalf of the government and people of Timor Leste, I extend our deepest gratitude to all Asean member states, Asean chairs, Asean secretaries and our dialogue partners,” added Gusmao.
“Your trust, encouragement and unwavering solidarity have made this historic day possible, and our path to membership has been long and purposeful,” he said.
Gusmao then said that Timor Leste enters Asean with full commitment to its charter and is ready to be a constructive, peaceful and devoted member.
“We pledge to work with all member states to keep our region peaceful, open and prosperous, and to be part of efforts to build resilience, deepen unity and ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.
He said this is a new beginning for Timor Leste that brings immense opportunities in trade, investment, education and the digital economy.
“We are ready to learn, innovate and uphold good governance, strengthening our institutions as we work together for sustainable development,” he said.
“This is not the end of our journey, this is the beginning of an inspiring new chapter,” he added.
Timor Leste was admitted as Asean’s 11th member with the signing of the admission declaration on Sunday.
