Meeting highlighted Timor-Leste’s progress and ASEAN’s commitment to strengthening its aviation connectivity.
Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn met H.E. Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu, Minister of Transports and Communication of Timor-Leste, on the sidelines of the Thirty-First ASEAN Transport Ministers Meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. The meeting marked one of Timor-Leste’s earliest high-level engagements since joining ASEAN as its 11th Member State.
Dr Kao congratulated Minister Manetelu on Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN and welcomed the country’s forthcoming submission of the Instruments of Accession to several key ASEAN air transport agreements. He noted that these steps demonstrated Timor-Leste’s commitment to aligning with regional aviation standards and participating actively in ASEAN transport frameworks.
Both sides discussed the importance of aviation connectivity in supporting economic development, mobility, and regional integration. Dr Kao reaffirmed ASEAN’s readiness to assist Timor-Leste in preparing for its integration into the ASEAN Single Aviation Market, a key pillar for promoting seamless air travel and strengthening competitiveness across the region.
The Secretary-General also highlighted ASEAN’s willingness to support Timor-Leste’s eventual participation in ASEAN–Dialogue Partner Air Services Agreements. Such participation would enable Timor-Leste to expand its regional and international air links, contributing to broader economic opportunities and enhancing connectivity for its citizens.
The meeting underscored ASEAN’s continued commitment to ensuring that Timor-Leste’s integration process is inclusive, well-supported, and aligned with the organisation’s long-term transport and connectivity goals.
Source: The ASEAN Secretary
