The ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta became the stage for a momentous occasion on Thursday, December 11, 2025, when H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, delivered an official policy speech marking his country’s historic entry into ASEAN as its eleventh Member State. The event gathered foreign dignitaries, diplomats, ambassadors, Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States, and distinguished guests, all eager to witness a milestone decades in the making.
A Warm Welcome to a Long-Awaited Member
Prime Minister Gusmão arrived at the ASEAN Secretariat in the afternoon, welcomed with full ceremonial honour. His arrival was followed by a series of symbolic activities including a photo session with the ASEAN Secretary-General and Permanent Representatives, the unveiling of the Timor-Leste emblem, the signing of the ASEAN guest book, and the presentation of the “Icon of Timor-Leste” to ASEAN. These ceremonial acts formally marked Timor-Leste’s transition from observer status to full membership—a moment that held profound emotional and political significance for the Timorese people.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn opened the event with welcoming remarks that reflected both respect and optimism. He emphasized that Prime Minister Gusmão’s presence symbolized the “deepening of Timor-Leste’s engagement with ASEAN” and its “unwavering dedication” as the newest member of the regional family. He described Timor-Leste’s admission as a historic achievement, fulfilling ASEAN’s vision of an inclusive, cooperative, and peaceful Southeast Asia. Dr. Kao highlighted how Timor-Leste’s demographic vibrancy, cultural richness, and strategic location would meaningfully strengthen ASEAN’s long-term aspirations.
The audience—consisting of tens of diplomats, high-ranking officials, international partners, and ASEAN representatives—listened attentively as the Secretary-General recognized Timor-Leste’s persistent efforts over the years to build institutions, deepen diplomatic engagement, and strengthen national development. Timor-Leste’s journey to membership, he noted, demonstrated sincerity, resilience, and a strong alignment with ASEAN’s principles.
Prime Minister Gusmão’s Vision for ASEAN and Timor-Leste
When Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão took the stage for his policy speech, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. Gusmão—national icon, freedom fighter, and statesman—spoke with clarity and conviction, drawing on Timor-Leste’s past struggles and future aspirations. His speech emphasized Timor-Leste’s commitment to contributing to ASEAN’s political stability, economic development, and socio-cultural cohesion.
He highlighted that ASEAN membership is not merely a diplomatic milestone but a transformative path for Timor-Leste’s future. He reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the obligations and responsibilities that come with full membership, including adherence to regional principles, participation in ASEAN-led mechanisms, and active contribution to the region’s peace and prosperity.
Gusmão also emphasized the importance of multilateralism, calling ASEAN a vital platform that allows small states like Timor-Leste to engage with larger regional and global partners from a position of strength. He acknowledged that ASEAN’s collective voice amplifies the aspirations of all its members—particularly those that have long sought greater regional integration.
Timor-Leste’s Long Journey to ASEAN Membership
Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN in October 2025 followed over a decade of preparation and engagement. Since formally applying for membership in 2011, the country had undertaken significant reforms to align its political, economic, and administrative frameworks with ASEAN standards.
During its years as an observer state, Timor-Leste participated actively in hundreds of ASEAN meetings across all three pillars: Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural. These engagements exposed Timor-Leste’s officials to regional governance processes and allowed the country to demonstrate its genuine commitment to ASEAN values.
The Secretary-General noted that Timor-Leste had strengthened its institutions, developed its digital and economic infrastructure, and improved governance capacities—all crucial steps in preparing for membership. In doing so, it proved that even a young nation emerging from conflict can position itself as a constructive regional partner.
Why ASEAN Membership Matters to the People of Timor-Leste
For Timor-Leste, ASEAN membership is more than symbolic—it carries important benefits for its society, economy, and international standing.
- Economic Growth and Development:
Integration into the ASEAN Economic Community allows Timor-Leste to access wider regional markets, attract greater investment, and benefit from development initiatives targeted at narrowing the development gap. - Security and Stability:
As a full participant in ASEAN’s political and security dialogues, Timor-Leste gains access to mechanisms that promote peace, conflict prevention, and diplomatic cooperation—critical elements for a young nation still consolidating its stability. - Institutional Strengthening:
ASEAN’s technical support, training programmes, and capacity-building initiatives will help Timor-Leste modernize its government systems and improve public administration. - Youth Empowerment and Regional Mobility:
Timor-Leste’s predominantly young population will enjoy greater opportunities for education, training, and employment across the region. As Dr. Kao noted, the energy and talent of Timorese youth will enrich ASEAN’s future and contribute to its 2045 vision of a dynamic, innovative region. - Global Visibility:
Membership gives Timor-Leste a stronger platform in international diplomacy, enabling it to engage major regional powers and global institutions as part of a respected regional bloc.
For the Timorese people—who endured decades of struggle for independence—joining ASEAN represents validation, empowerment, and a hopeful step into a more connected future.
A Celebration of Culture: Timorese Youth Dance Performance
As the event drew to a close, the mood shifted from solemn diplomacy to joyful celebration. A group of talented Timorese youth took the stage to perform traditional dances that showcased the vibrancy of Timor-Leste’s cultural heritage. Their movements were graceful and spirited, evoking pride, identity, and unity.
The performance was deeply moving. It reminded everyone present that ASEAN is not merely an institution of states—it is a community of peoples. The dance highlighted the cultural richness Timor-Leste brings into the regional fold and symbolized the hope of a new generation stepping confidently into a shared Southeast Asian future.
A Milestone with Lasting Significance
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão’s visit to the ASEAN Secretariat will be remembered as a defining moment in Southeast Asia’s regional narrative. It signaled the beginning of Timor-Leste’s full participation in ASEAN’s processes and reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to inclusivity, unity, and collective progress.
For ASEAN, Timor-Leste’s membership strengthens regional cohesion and adds a compelling voice shaped by resilience, humility, and determination. For Timor-Leste, it marks the start of a new chapter—one filled with opportunities, responsibilities, and the promise of a brighter future for its people.
As the flags of all eleven Member States now stand proudly together at the ASEAN Headquarters, the region moves forward with renewed hope, carrying with it the spirit of solidarity that has long defined the ASEAN story.
