Anwar Ibrahim Holds Bilateral Meeting with Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia met with Timor-Leste counterpart, Xanana Gusmao, on Wednesday to discuss important matters.

• The meeting took place at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane.
• One of the key topics of discussion was Timor-Leste’s application for full membership in the Asean bloc.
• The leaders engaged in a fruitful conversation for about 15 minutes during the 44th and 45th Asean Summits.
  

  Timor-Leste’s Path to Asean Membership
  

• Timor-Leste has been seeking full membership in the Asean regional bloc.
• The country became an observer state in 2005 and applied for membership in 2011.
• Asean leaders showed support for Timor-Leste’s membership during the 40th and 41st Asean Summits in 2022.
• Currently, Timor-Leste is awaiting the consensus of Asean member states to finalize its full membership.
  

  Timor-Leste’s Participation in Asean Meetings
  

• Timor-Leste has been granted observer status, allowing the country to participate in all Asean Meetings, including plenary sessions.
• This status showcases the growing relationship between Timor-Leste and the Asean community.

  In summary, the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao signifies the ongoing efforts of Timor-Leste to become a full member of the Asean bloc. The support shown by Asean leaders highlights the potential for Timor-Leste’s integration into the regional community. This development holds significance for both countries and the broader Asean region, reflecting the commitment to collaboration and unity among member states.