TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Timor-Leste is confirmed to become a full member of ASEAN in October 2025. Its accession process will conclude within the next three months, following the agreement on final steps by ASEAN leaders at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur last May.
This confirmation came from ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn during the Briefing by the Secretary-General of ASEAN at the ASEAN Secretariat in South Jakarta on Friday, July 18, 2025.
"Timor-Leste will become a full member in October this year. I think this is moving forward," Kao stated. He added that ASEAN is currently formulating the necessary post-membership steps.
Adjustment of Key Documents Underway
According to Kao, ASEAN is finalizing two crucial documents: Timor-Leste's declaration of admission and the instrument of acceptance of the ASEAN Charter. "I think these should be completed between now and before the 47th ASEAN Summit," he explained.
Kao emphasized the ASEAN Secretariat's full support for this accession process. "We are now looking at that post and seeing what we need to do. Adjustments and arrangements on both sides. We are moving forward," he said.
Diplomatic Presence in Dili
One of the implications of Timor-Leste's full membership is the requirement for ASEAN member countries to open embassies in Dili, the capital. Kao noted that Timor-Leste has already established representations in all ASEAN countries.
"I understand that Timor-Leste has established embassies in all ASEAN member countries. So, that means ASEAN must reciprocate based on the agreements, based on the commitments there," Kao confirmed.
Economic and Investment Opportunities Ahead
Kao highlighted that full membership will unlock substantial opportunities for Timor-Leste, particularly in the economic sector. "Timor-Leste's economy will be connected to the ASEAN economy, as we have signed many agreements," he stated.
He also mentioned that ASEAN is compiling a "to-do list" this year that will further integrate Timor-Leste's economy with the region.
Kao urged ASEAN's dialogue partner countries to begin investing in Timor-Leste as part of their development support.
"We welcome their support for Timor-Leste's development. This will accelerate economic development, as you can see in other member states," Kao remarked.
Once the two main documents are finalized and fully endorsed by all member states, Timor-Leste is scheduled to officially join ASEAN as the 11th member at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025.
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