The Minister of Social Solidarity and Inclusion, Verónica das Dores, took part in the 30th Meeting of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (ASCC) held in Jakarta, Indonesia, on August 28^th and 29^th, 2023. 

The event, themed “ASEAN Matters: Epicentre of Growth”, brought together ministers and representatives from ASEAN member countries to discuss crucial socio-cultural issues, covering health, education, climate change, sustainable resilience, gender equality and family well-being. 

Minister Verónica das Dores expressed her gratitude to ASEAN member states for allowing Timor-Leste to participate as an observer member and addressed issues related to education, public health, gender equality and other common interests among ASEAN members.

During the meeting, the commitment to promoting socio-cultural priorities was emphasised, including early childhood care, education, and inclusive development for people with disabilities. The importance of promoting inclusive development that meets the diverse needs of the peoples of ASEAN was also emphasised. 

The ASCC council also recognised the need for coordinated action against climate change and the strengthening of sustainable resilience, especially in disaster management throughout the ASEAN region.