Prime Minister Reassures Timor-Leste’s Commitment to ASEAN and Japan’s Values and Principles
During his participation in the Summit Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Friendship and Cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan, which took place in the Japanese capital from December 16th to 18th, Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão expressed Timor-Leste's appreciation for the fundamental principles defended by ASEAN and Japan over the last five decades.
During this Commemorative Summit, the achievements of the relations between ASEAN and Japan since 1973 were analysed, and the future direction of these relations was discussed. The leaders of ASEAN and Japan adopted a Joint Vision Statement and its Implementation Plan, reasserting the commitments of both sides to strengthen the recently launched ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is significant, substantial and mutually beneficial.
In his speech, the Head of Government said that Timor-Leste values “the common values and aspirations advocated by ASEAN and Japan”, mirrored in the “principles of inclusivity, mutual respect, commitment to joint prosperity and the vision of the ASEAN community”.
Xanana Gusmão reiterated Timor-Leste's commitment to “intensify its participation in ASEAN” “despite its observer position”, remaining “steadfast in the determination and collective goals of ASEAN, which aim to promote stability, economic growth and social progress”. He also stressed that “Timor-Leste's journey is now in its infancy, and we look forward to the day when we can actively contribute to the dialogues and initiatives that shape the dynamics of this region”.
The Prime Minister emphasised that diplomatic relations between Japan and ASEAN reflect “a token of friendship in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the region” and expressed his “gratitude to Indonesia for assuming the ASEAN chairmanship in 2023”, also wishing “every success to Laos, which will assume the chairmanship in 2024”.
The Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, reiterated the Japanese Government's commitment to supporting Timor-Leste, with the precise aim of contributing to the country's development process. Kishida also argued that, although diplomatic relations between Timor-Leste and Japan are more than 20 years old, it is necessary to strengthen cooperation to consolidate peace and promote respect for the common principles of democracy and human rights.
