Dili, February 28, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Timor-Leste continues taking major steps towards Full Membership of ASEAN: The EU remains committed to continue supporting the country’s ambition to become a member of the Organization in the very near future
Through the Council of Ministries endorsed the Initial full Market Access Offers on Services and on the Movement of Natural Persons for Timor-Leste’s negotiations to accede to the main ASEAN economic agreements.
On February 26, 2025, and following the approval, on December last year, of the Initial full Market Access Offer for Goods, the Council of Ministers announced via a press release the approval of Timor-Leste’s full Initial Market Access Offers for the accession to the ASEAN Framework.
On Services (AFAS) and the ASEAN Trade in Services Agreement (ATISA) as well as the for the accession to the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons (MNP). The successful conclusion of negotiations on the related ASEAN agreements is a prerequisite for Timor-Leste to join the Organization
As highlighted by the Government, ASEAN membership is regarded as a “critical pillar of the Government’s strategy for integrating the country into the global and regional economy.
The European Union Ambassador, Marc Fiedrich said that the European Union through the “Support to Regional Integration and Trade” project, implemented by International Trade Center is playing a significant role in supporting the Government and the ASEAN Technical Working Group.
“In the preparation of the Initial Market Access Offers for all these key economic agreements, as well as for the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA). The European Union remains committed to continue providing technical assistance for the drafting of the last pending offer on investment and throughout the negotiating process.” He said in the Press Conference
He said, the ASEAN region is one of the most dynamic regions in the world, with more than 620 million citizens and a GDP well beyond 3 TRILLION US dollars.
Therefore, becoming member of the ASEAN, the biggest trade and investment partner of Timor-Leste will grant the country enhanced access to regional and world markets, opening new opportunities for Timorese products and services.
Reported by : Estefania
Picture by : Estefania