Manila:Timor-Leste has made significant strides in its inaugural year as a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), by acceding to legal instruments spanning all three pillars of the ASEAN Community, according to Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lazaro stated that these accessions symbolize the progress Timor-Leste has made in implementing the Roadmap for its full membership in ASEAN, which demands adherence to the bloc's treaties, conventions, and agreements.

Lazaro emphasized the continued commitment to supporting Timor-Leste's full integration and active participation in all ASEAN meetings and mechanisms. This support includes practical assistance tailored to Timor-Leste's needs as it fulfills its remaining commitments under the roadmap.

In her remarks, Lazaro encouraged other ASEAN member states and external partners to assist Timor-Leste in building the required capacity to meet its membership obligations and actively participate in the bloc's activities.

Lazaro highlighted that the Cebu Protocol formally acknowledges Timor-Leste’s admission and represents the first amendment to the ASEAN Charter since 2007, calling it a significant milestone for ASEAN's development as a more inclusive regional community. ASEAN member states are currently conducting domestic procedures to ratify the protocol.

The upcoming 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, scheduled from November 15 to 17 at the Philippine International Convention Center, are set to unveil the updated ASEAN emblem and conduct a ceremonial raising of the bloc’s updated flag. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will lead Malaysia’s delegation to the meetings.