ASEAN leaders and Timor‑Leste’s Prime Minister signed the Declaration of Admission at the 47th ASEAN Summit on October 26, 2025, formally welcoming Timor‑Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia)
The National Parliament of Timor-Leste ratified two new draft resolutions on June 29, aiming to ease the standardised domestic regulations to those of ASEAN. The new legislation was introduced during an ordinary plenary session witnessed by Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs, Milena Rangel.
The plenary discussed and approved Proposal for Resolution No. 52/VI(3.a), which amends the existing Timor-Leste Framework of Commitments annexed to the Protocol on Amendment to the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Individuals, as written in the National Parliament Resolution No. 46/2025. The measure was passed unanimously by 41 lawmakers in favour, with none against and abstentions.
Alongside this, Proposed Resolution No. 53/VI(3.a) on the Cebu Protocol amendments of the ASEAN Charter was also endorsed with 42 votes in favour and no opposition or abstentions. This new resolution formalises Timor‑Leste’s position as the 11th member by incorporating the necessary elements into the ASEAN Charter, including the flag and symbol.
Speaking before the forum, the Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs of Timor-Leste, Milena Rangel, assured that the resolution fulfilled all requirements under the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons (MNP). She underlined that the ratifications demonstrate Timor-Leste’s readiness for ASEAN institutional frameworks and statutes.
These developments show Timor-Leste’s commitment to integrating with the regional bloc. By ratifying the new regulations, on a specific clause related to streamline visa and entry protocols for service providers, business visitors and investors, Dili aims to attract economic opportunities and active membership within Southeast Asia.
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