Timor-Leste's PM GusmÃo Calls For Stronger Dialogue, Peace To Regional stability

By Samantha Tan

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão has reiterated the importance of peace and dialogue in ensuring sustainable development across the ASEAN region and beyond.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits today, he said ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan and South Korea, remained committed to working closely with the regional bloc to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors.

“The partners, not only China, Japan and South Korea, but all our partners, remain committed to continuing to work with ASEAN to improve people’s lives and promote development across all sectors,” he said.

“They are also determined to ensure peace in the region, sending a clear message to the world that without peace, there can be no development,” he said.

Commenting on the possibility of ASEAN expanding to include more members in the future, Gusmão said the decision would rest with ASEAN member states. 

When asked how he felt at the conclusion of the summit, Gusmão replied candidly, “Honestly, very tired.”

Timor-Leste on Oct 26 officially acceded to ASEAN as the 11th member state, marking a historic milestone for both the nation and the bloc.

The accession, the grouping’s first expansion in 26 years, was formalised through the signing of the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN.

-- BERNAMA