Timor-Leste joins ASEAN (October 31, 2025)

France congratulates Timor-Leste on becoming a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the 47th ASEAN summit held in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28. Throughout the 14-year negotiation process, France fully supported Timor-Leste’s goal of membership.

This is ASEAN’s first enlargement since 1999, and Timor-Leste’s membership is an important step toward strengthening the association’s central role. It further anchors Timor-Leste in its regional environment, enabling it to become a full-fledged participant in the world’s leading area of economic growth.

During his trip to Southeast Asia in May 2025, President Macron met with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, in Jakarta. In July he hosted the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the country holding the ASEAN presidency at that time.

Expanding ties with its Southeast Asian partners is a priority for France, both individually and through the ASEAN-France Development Partnership launched in 2020.

Timor-Leste is a close partner of France and the European Union, particularly with regard to defending multilateralism and tackling global challenges.