Asean welcomes its 11th member

Long overdue: Gusmao shedding tears of joy after signing the declaration on the nation’s admission into Asean. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Asean has officially become an 11-member regional bloc with the admission of Timor-Leste.

The milestone follows Timor-Leste’s 14-year pursuit of membership, which culminated yesterday at the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits with the signing of the declaration of its admission.

The country’s flag was raised on stage alongside those of other Asean member states.

The landmark ceremony, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his capacity as Asean Chair, marked a defining moment in the region’s community building.

Anwar signed the declaration first, followed by other Asean leaders and Timor-Leste.

Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao said becoming Asean’s 11th member marks the beginning of an inspiring new chapter for the nation.

“Timor-Leste joins with humility and pride,” he said.

Gusmao said the occasion was not only a dream realised, but also a powerful affirmation of the country’s 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.

“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.

“Your trust, encouragement and unwavering solidarity have made this historic day possible, and our path to membership has been long and purposeful,” he added.

Gusmao said 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 new beginning brings immense opportunities for Timor-Leste 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.

“This is not the end of our journey, this is the beginning of an inspiring new chapter,” he added.