Dili, June 9 (AseanAll)  — In an exclusive interview with TVE Timor-Leste, the President of the Republic of Timor-Leste, J. Ramos-Horta, outlined Timor-Leste’s trajectory toward its long-awaited accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), scheduled for October 2025. 

The Head of State highlighted that joining the region’s most influential regional bloc will bring new opportunities for commercial cooperation, regional integration, and sustainable development.

During the interview, the President identified priority areas for the post-accession period, emphasizing the need to strengthen institutional capacity, improve national infrastructure, and qualify human resources to meet ASEAN’s required standards. He also advocated for economic diversification, with investments in sectors such as renewable energy, and structural investments in education, health, and good governance systems, aligned with the regional bloc’s principles.

When addressing youth preparation for this new phase, Ramos-Horta delivered a direct message to young Timorese, encouraging them to study with dedication and embrace academic excellence. The President reinforced the importance of young people acquiring technical skills, mastery of foreign languages, and knowledge about regional affairs, so they can represent Timor-Leste with confidence and actively contribute to the country’s progress within the ASEAN context.

Ramos-Horta also expressed deep gratitude to all who contributed to Timor-Leste’s long accession journey, especially thanking ASEAN member states, international partners, and friends for their continuous and supportive assistance. He also highlighted the essential role of the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, whose strategic vision and institutional cooperation were decisive in achieving this historic accomplishment for the Timorese people.