KUALA LUMPUR — Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão has described his country’s entry into Asean as a milestone rooted not in the pursuit of material gain, but in the shared identity and collective strength of the region.
Gusmão said the country has endured a long and difficult journey in its efforts to rebuild and strengthen itself since gaining independence.
“We are still a very poor country. In the process of developing the state, we can consider ourselves not a failed state, but a fragile one.
“Our motivation was not driven by immediate gains, but by the simple reality that we are part of Asean. Geographically, we are within the region,” Gusmão said in a press conference here today.
By joining Asean, he said, Timor-Leste hopes to amplify its voice on the international stage, turning isolation into influence through collective strength.
Citing visits from world leaders such as US president Donald Trump and the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Gusmão said Asean’s growing prominence underscores its vitality socially, economically and diplomatically.
“Standing alone, our voices may not be heard. People might say, ‘Who are you? You are just a small island nation.’ But within Asean, our voice will resonate through this great community of nations.
“The real benefit of Asean membership is the exchange of knowledge, skills, and technical expertise,” he said.
While acknowledging potential economic collaboration and investment opportunities, Gusmão reiterated that Timor-Leste’s approach is one of humility and partnership.
He also highlighted the country’s geographic and environmental challenges, including its mountainous terrain and the unpredictable impacts of climate change on agriculture.
“We come to learn, not to demand benefits. When people talk about benefits, they often think only of money. But for us, that is not the case. We are open to investments, to partnerships, and to the sharing of knowledge. These are the kinds of benefits we value most.
“We are a small, mountainous half-island, with only about 20 per cent of our land being flat. That makes agriculture very challenging,” he said.
Gusmão also said that joining Asean allows Timor-Leste to not only grow economically, but to have its voice heard on global issues alongside its regional neighbours.
