Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday hailed the formal admission of East Timor into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), calling it a “historic milestone” for the region as leaders opened the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
In a social media post, Mr. Marcos said Timor-Leste’s inclusion “reflects our region’s collective commitment to unity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.”
“As we open the 47th ASEAN Summit, the Philippines stands ready to work with all member states to build a more inclusive, secure, and sustainable future for our people,” the president wrote.
The 47th ASEAN Summit, hosted by Malaysia from Oct. 26 to 28, brings together heads of state and government to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.
Timor-Leste’s membership marks the first expansion of ASEAN in more than two decades and underscores the bloc’s commitment to regional integration.
Mr. Marcos said the Philippines welcomes Timor-Leste “into the ASEAN family” and looks forward to working closely with its newest member to advance shared goals of peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
President Marcos is currently in Kuala Lumpur to attend the three-day leaders’ summit from October 26 to 28. He is expected to push for ASEAN centrality and support efforts aimed at maintaining regional peace and stability.
Timor-Leste is represented in the ongoing summit by its Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
