(AseanAll) — Indonesia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sugiono, hosted Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, in Jakarta on March 3,2025 to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic partnerships, border resolution, and support for Timor-Leste’s full accession to ASEAN.
"The partnership between Indonesia and Timor-Leste continues to grow in a spirit of brotherhood. We want to ensure that this cooperation provides tangible benefits for the people of both countries," said Sugiono.
On economic cooperation, Sugionocommended the increasing economic cooperation between the two countries. Indonesia remains Timor-Leste's primary trading partner, with trade volume reaching USD 391.3 million in 2024, an increase of 12.31% (YoY). "I appreciate the progress in the Bilateral Investment Treaty negotiations. Accelerating investment permits for Indonesian businesses, including state-owned enterprises operating in Timor-Leste, is crucial to fostering closer economic cooperation," Sugiono emphasized.
During the meeting, Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment as a development partner for Timor-Leste. Indonesia is ready to strengthen its support for Timor-Leste’s national development through further collaboration. Additionally, Indonesia reiterated its support for Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN, including through capacity-building programs. "Timor-Leste is part of the ASEAN family, and Indonesia is ready to support its full integration," Minister Sugiono added.
In recent years, Indonesia and Timor-Leste's development cooperation has expanded, including diplomatic training, financial management reforms, scholarships, and aquaculture development.
On border issues, both ministers committed to resolving border issues constructively, based on good neighborlyrelations and mutual respect. "A complete border resolution will open economic opportunities and enhance connectivity for border communities," said Minister Sugiono.
Closing the meeting, Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Timor-Leste. The two ministers also agreed to revitalize the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) as a strategic forum at the foreign ministerial level to review and develop bilateral cooperation.
