TIMOR-LESTE'S ACCESSION TO ASEAN REFLECTS OUR FIRM COMMITMENT TO REGIONAL COOPERATION, SAYS GUSMAO

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN reflects its firm commitment to regional cooperation, good governance, and peaceful relations among nations, said Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao. 

He said joining ASEAN marks both a milestone in Timor-Leste's national journey and a new chapter in the story of Southeast Asia.

"Our membership reaffirms Timor-Leste's place in the Southeast Asian family. It is the result of more than two decades of nation-building and our dedication to peace, partnership, and shared prosperity," he said at the press conference here today.

Gusmao also conveyed his gratitude to ASEAN member states, external partners, and the Timorese people for their support in making the country's long-held aspiration a reality.

He said Timor-Leste's path to membership, which began with its application in 2011, was guided by ASEAN's core principles of mutual respect and unity in diversity, and supported by close cooperation with member states and partners.

"Joining ASEAN at this critical time underscores our belief in regional solidarity and the importance of collective action amid global uncertainty," he said.

Gusmao added that Timor-Leste is ready to contribute actively to ASEAN's goals of stability, inclusiveness, and sustainable growth.

"We look forward to working together in building a peaceful, resilient and connected Southeast Asia, united in purpose and shared destiny," he said.

On celebrations marking the country's admission to ASEAN, Gusmao said festivities were being held across Timor-Leste.

"Yes, they are celebrating in the municipalities because they have already received the news. Some of our diplomatic missions abroad are also celebrating — not big parties, but small ceremonies to mark this historic moment of becoming a full member of ASEAN," he stated.

Asked about the Myanmar conflict, Gusmao said Timor-Leste fully supports the implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus as the principal framework for a peaceful and lasting solution to the crisis.

He noted that the consensus, which calls for the immediate cessation of violence, constructive dialogue among all parties, the appointment of a special envoy of the ASEAN chair to facilitate mediation and dialogue, and the provision of humanitarian assistance through ASEAN, remains the best path forward.

"When we say ASEAN agreed, that means Myanmar is inside ASEAN. Timor-Leste fully supports this approach. Our country has experienced conflict before, and we know that the best way forward is through peace and dialogue." 

Gusmao added that Timor-Leste stands ready to take part in humanitarian initiatives that uphold ASEAN's shared principles and collective responsibilities.

-- BERNAMA