Timor-Leste Joins ASEAN as 11th Member in Historic Expansion

On October 26, 2025, during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Timor-Leste was officially admitted as the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This marks the bloc's first expansion since Cambodia's inclusion in 1999.

The accession ceremony featured the signing of the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN, attended by leaders from existing member states and key international partners. Timor-Leste's Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão, described the membership as a "dream realized," emphasizing its significance for the nation's economic development and regional integration.

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, occupies the eastern half of the island of Timor. It gained independence from Indonesia in 2002, following a United Nations-administered transition period. With a population of approximately 1.4 million and a GDP of around $2 billion, Timor-Leste has faced challenges such as high levels of poverty and unemployment. The country's economy has been heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues, prompting efforts to diversify and stimulate other sectors.

ASEAN was established in 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand to promote regional cooperation and stability. Brunei joined in 1984, followed by Vietnam in 1995, Laos and Myanmar in 1997, and Cambodia in 1999. Timor-Leste's admission in 2025 represents the first expansion in over two decades, reflecting the bloc's commitment to inclusivity and regional cohesion.

As a member of ASEAN, Timor-Leste gains access to a $3.8 trillion economy and regional trade agreements, presenting opportunities to address domestic challenges such as poverty and unemployment. Despite initial concerns about Timor-Leste's administrative capacity, its accession symbolizes ASEAN's commitment to inclusivity and regional cohesion.

Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "For the people of Timor-Leste, this is not only a dream realized, but a powerful affirmation of our journey—one marked by resilience, determination, and hope."

Timor-Leste's accession to ASEAN has been a topic of discussion since its application in 2011. Concerns about the country's economic and social conditions, including its dependence on oil revenues and underdeveloped infrastructure, have been raised. However, ASEAN's decision to admit Timor-Leste reflects a commitment to regional integration and support for the nation's development efforts.

Timor-Leste's formal admission into ASEAN marks a significant milestone in the nation's history and the region's development. It opens new avenues for economic growth, regional cooperation, and international engagement for the young nation.