Meeting highlighted Timor-Leste鈥檚 progress and ASEAN鈥檚 commitment to strengthening its aviation connectivity.
Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn met H.E. Miguel Marques Gon莽alves 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鈥檚 earliest high-level engagements since joining ASEAN as its 11th Member State.
Dr Kao congratulated Minister Manetelu on Timor-Leste鈥檚 accession to ASEAN and welcomed the country鈥檚 forthcoming submission of the Instruments of Accession to several key ASEAN air transport agreements. He noted that these steps demonstrated Timor-Leste鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 willingness to support Timor-Leste鈥檚 eventual participation in ASEAN鈥揇ialogue 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鈥檚 continued commitment to ensuring that Timor-Leste鈥檚 integration process is inclusive, well-supported, and aligned with the organisation鈥檚 long-term transport and connectivity goals.
Source: The ASEAN Secretary
