This Is Xanana Gusmao's Hope After Timor Leste Becomes A Full Member Of ASEAN

The Prime Minister of Timor-Leste Kay Rala Xana Gusm Badminton (central) gave a statement to reporters on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sunday (26/10/2025). (ANTARA/Rangga Pandu Asmara Jingga)

JAKARTA - Timorese Prime Minister Leste Kay Rala Xana Gusmao expressed his hope that Timor Leste's voice could be heard even more after officially joining as a full member of ASEAN.

"Seeing ASEAN as an area, we are of the view that by joining ASEAN, many of our issues and voices can be heard. If we ourselves, people will ask who we are, small countries," Xanana said at a press conference on the sidelines of the ASEAN 47th Summit and a related meeting at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLC), Malaysia, Sunday.

Xanana expressed her gratitude to all ASEAN members, external partners, and the people of Timor Leste for the support provided so far.

According to him, accession of Timor Leste as a full member of ASEAN marks a new chapter for Timor-Leste as well as a new history for ASEAN.

This membership reflects Timor Leste's commitment to strengthening cooperation and friendly relations in the region.

"Since 2011 Timor Leste has been preparing to integrate into ASEAN. On its way, we are guided by ASEAN in the framework of unity in diversity," said Xanana.

He again expressed his appreciation for the support and friendship shown by all ASEAN members.

"Together we build peace and unity," said Xanana.

On Sunday, ASEAN officially confirmed Timor Leste as a full member, making it the 11th country in ASEAN membership.