Malaysia and ASEAN Discuss Timor-Leste’s Accession and Other Key Issues

ASEAN Secretary-General and Foreign Minister Meet to Discuss Key Agenda

KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 (Bernama) — ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan met on Thursday to discuss Malaysia’s commitment to a successful ASEAN Chairmanship and preparation for the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, scheduled for May 26 to 27.

Matters Discussed during the Meeting

The meeting at Mohamad’s office in Putrajaya highlighted several key issues, including Malaysia’s commitment to a successful ASEAN Chairmanship, preparation for the 46th ASEAN Summit, and other relevant matters. The meeting also addressed Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN, ASEAN’s external relations, and the latest development regarding the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 (ACV 2045) which will be signed during the 46th ASEAN Summit.

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship

Malaysia officially assumed the ASEAN Chairmanship on January 1, 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”. This theme reflects Malaysia’s commitment to promoting greater inclusivity and sustainability in ASEAN’s community-building efforts.

Timor-Leste’s Accession to ASEAN

Timor-Leste is currently awaiting a consensus decision from ASEAN member states on its acceptance as a full member of the regional organisation. The country was recognised as an ASEAN observer and joined the ASEAN Regional Forum in 2005 before officially applying for membership on March 4, 2011. In 2022, ASEAN leaders gathered at the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and agreed in principle for Timor-Leste to become the group’s 11th member. Timor-Leste has also been granted observer status to participate in all ASEAN meetings, including plenary sessions.

FAOs

* What is the theme of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship?
“INCLUSIVITY AND SUSTAINABILITY”

* When did Timor-Leste officially apply for ASEAN membership?
March 4, 2011

* What is Timor-Leste’s current status in ASEAN?
ASEAN observer

* When is the 47th ASEAN Summit scheduled to take place?
This October

Conclusion

The meeting between ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan highlights Malaysia’s commitment to a successful ASEAN Chairmanship and preparation for the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. The discussions also touched on Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN, ASEAN’s external relations, and the latest development regarding the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. As ASEAN continues to work towards a more integrated and harmonious region, these developments are crucial in shaping the future of the region.