East Timor’s recent accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) marks a significant milestone in its journey toward regional integration and development. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao heralded this moment as a transformative opportunity, reflecting the nation’s resilience and aspirations for growth. This membership is not merely a diplomatic achievement; it symbolizes a new chapter for East Timor, offering avenues for economic enhancement and collaboration with its ASEAN neighbors.
East Timor, officially known as Timor-Leste, has officially joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as its 11th member, a milestone celebrated by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao as a “dream realized.” The flag of East Timor was unfurled alongside those of the other ten member states during a formal ceremony held at the ASEAN annual summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, drawing enthusiastic applause from attendees.
Prime Minister Gusmao characterized this development as a historic moment for his nation, anticipating that it will unlock “immense opportunities” for trade and investment. He expressed that the accession is more than a political achievement; it represents a powerful affirmation of East Timor’s resilience, marked by ongoing determination and hope. “This is not the end of a journey. This is the beginning of an inspiring new chapter,” he asserted.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, currently chairing ASEAN, echoed these sentiments, stating that East Timor’s membership completes the ASEAN family, highlighting their shared destiny and regional kinship. The inclusion of East Timor comes after a prolonged 14-year wait and is recognized as a crowning achievement of Malaysia’s leadership within the bloc.
Historically, East Timor was ruled by Portugal for three centuries before its abrupt departure in 1975 led to Indonesia’s annexation and subsequent occupation, which was often violent and tumultuous. East Timor ultimately achieved full independence in 2002, and the long-term aspiration for ASEAN membership has been championed by East Timorese President Jose Ramos-Horta. His advocacy for joining the organization dates back to the 1970s, aiming to create a secure future for the nation through regional cooperation.
In 2022, East Timor was awarded observer status within ASEAN, but full membership was delayed due to various challenges. With a population of approximately 1.4 million, East Timor is one of Asia’s less affluent countries, with hopes of leveraging ASEAN membership to enhance its emerging economy, which currently contributes only billion to the bloc’s overall GDP of .8 trillion.
As it stands, about 42 percent of East Timor’s population lives below the national poverty line, while nearly two-thirds are under 30 years of age. The country primarily relies on the oil and gas sector for government revenue, yet, as resources deplete, there is an urgent need for economic diversification.
East Timor’s new status grants access to ASEAN’s free trade agreements, investment opportunities, and a larger regional market. In a recent interview, President Ramos-Horta emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and not becoming a burden on ASEAN. He projected that East Timor could contribute valuable insights on conflict management, particularly in relation to border disputes and issues like the South China Sea. Ramos-Horta stated, “If we can in the future contribute towards strengthening ASEAN mechanisms such as conflict mechanisms, that is key. In each country in ASEAN, we put emphasis on dialogue.”
Since its inception in 1967 with just five member states, ASEAN has fostered gradual expansion, with Cambodia being the last to join in 1999. As East Timor embarks on this empowering journey, its membership symbolizes a broader commitment to regional unity and economic collaboration.
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