Timor-Leste participates in discussions on Digital Transformation and Regional Connectivity in Vietnam and Malaysia
The Minister of Transport and Communications, Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu, led a national delegation on important official engagements in Vietnam and Malaysia to strengthen international cooperation and represent Timor-Leste in strategic transport and digital technology discussions. 
On November 19th, 2024, the Minister attended the opening of Vietnam International Digital Week in Ha Long. This event brought together government leaders, experts, and companies to discuss advances in digital transformation, emphasising the application of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and 5G.
During the ministerial roundtable, Minister Miguel Manetelu addressed Timor-Leste's progress and challenges in digitising public services, emphasising that the country has already started implementing virtual assistance despite its limitations in telecommunications infrastructure and human resources training. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of completing the submarine fibre optic cable, scheduled for early 2025, as an essential milestone for increasing connectivity and boosting technological innovation in the country. 
The national delegation, made up of representatives from the National Communications Authority (ANC – acronym in Portuguese), TIC Timor, and the National Directorate of Information and Communication (DNIC – acronym in Portuguese), also participated in thematic meetings on digital policies, connectivity and practical applications of artificial intelligence. During these sessions, opportunities were explored to attract investment and establish strategic partnerships that can help accelerate Timor-Leste's digital transformation.
Also in Vietnam, Minister Miguel Manetelu held a bilateral meeting with the Vietnamese Minister of Information and Communications, Nguyen Manh Hung, where he reaffirmed the importance of cooperation between the two countries. The Vietnamese Minister presented relevant initiatives in digital transformation, digital economy, and telecommunications, reiterating Vietnam's commitment to supporting Timor-Leste, including granting annual scholarships for Timorese students at Vietnamese universities. The two sides also agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2024 to strengthen collaboration in the information and communication sector. 
Following the activities in Vietnam, the Minister travelled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on November 21st and 22nd, to participate in the 30th ASEAN Transport Ministerial Meeting. This event, considered the most critical high-level forum for the transport sector in the region, brought together ministers from ASEAN members and partner countries to discuss policies and strategies to strengthen regional connectivity, improve transport safety, and harmonise infrastructure and regulations.
With observer status, Timor-Leste took part in the plenary sessions to follow the discussions, and the critical points addressed, preparing for full integration into the regional bloc. 
Minister Miguel Manetelu emphasised the importance of this participation in allowing Timor-Leste to align its policies and strategies with ASEAN's requirements, especially in the transport sector. 
