Timor-Leste becomes ASEAN's 11th member

Timor-Leste has formally entered the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as its 11th member-state following its formal accession at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed Timor-Leste's admission, describing it as a historic milestone that strengthens the region's pursuit of unity and shared prosperity.

Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão joined the regional bloc's leaders for the customary ASEAN handshake and vowed to work with all member states to keep the region peaceful, open, and prosperous.

Gusmão stated that Timor-Leste's accession is a testament to the spirit of its people, a young democracy born from struggle, now embracing a new era of collaboration and growth.

The entry of Timor-Leste into ASEAN opens up a market of more than 670 million people, bringing immense opportunities in trade, investment, education, and the digital economy.

The new member pledged to learn, innovate, and uphold governance, strengthening its institutions while working towards sustainable development.

The summit, held in Kuala Lumpur, was also attended by world leaders such as United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US President Donald J. Trump.