Timor-Leste reviews ASEAN commitments ahead of 2029 chairmanship
Talks in Jakarta addressed outstanding membership criteria, accession to economic agreements and government preparations to lead the bloc.
Timor-Leste’s outstanding ASEAN obligations and preparations to chair the bloc in 2029 were discussed on November 2 in Jakarta by Vice Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn.
Meeting at ASEAN headquarters, they examined progress against criteria still to be implemented under the Roadmap for Timor-Leste’s Full Membership in ASEAN. They also assessed work towards joining the remaining ASEAN Economic Agreements and considered closer cooperation to help the country carry out its membership commitments.
Kao reaffirmed that the ASEAN Secretariat would support the integration process and assist Timor-Leste in meeting obligations that remain outstanding. Lay thanked him and the Secretariat for their assistance.
Lay outlined government work to prepare the country for the responsibilities of the 2029 chairmanship. His briefing also covered efforts to build institutional capacity, alongside progress on economic development, infrastructure, security and diplomatic engagement. The preparations aim to strengthen national readiness to lead the regional organisation.
