Summary of Recent News on Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste, which achieved independence in 2002 after a violent struggle against Indonesian occupation, is on the cusp of becoming the 11th member of ASEAN in October 2025. Despite facing considerable political challenges, including past violence and ongoing power struggles between dominant parties, the country has made progress in governance and economic reforms needed for ASEAN accession. The government, led by President Jose Ramos-Horta, emphasizes ASEAN membership as a key priority to foster development through regional cooperation and economic integration. Timor-Leste remains one of Asia's poorest nations with substantial infrastructure deficits, governance issues, and limited human resource capacity. Educational investment is low, and the young population faces challenges in skills and job availability. Support from neighboring countries, especially Singapore, aims to build capacity and improve skills, notably in tourism and trade. The country is focusing on economic diversification, infrastructure upgrades such as airport expansion, and attracting foreign investment in sectors like energy, tourism, agriculture, and fisheries. While political rivalries continue to pose risks, leadership expresses commitment to reforms and stability. Timor-Leste seeks to change perceptions from a conflict-affected past to a promising future, leveraging its youth, natural resources, and regional integration to build sustainable development and prosperity. **Source:** [Timor-Leste’s battle to belong in Asean](https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/2025/06/timor-leste-asean-insight/index.html%3Fshell&ct=ga&cd=CAIyHzFkN2VjYWY3NWRkMzJiZGE6Y29tLm15OmVuOk1ZOkw&usg=AOvVaw1CJpFzR6z7yWqmzO5YjmOt)