East Timor, Asia’s youngest nation, becomes ASEAN’s 11th member
Summary
East Timor, Asia's youngest nation, has become the 11th member of ASEAN after a 14-year wait, marking a historic moment for its democracy and regional integration.
Key Points
- East Timor became the 11th member of ASEAN on Sunday, formalized at the annual summit in Kuala Lumpur.
- The country's accession represents a symbolic victory for President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
- East Timor hopes to benefit economically from joining ASEAN despite its small GDP relative to the bloc.
- Ramos-Horta had advocated for ASEAN membership since the 1970s to secure East Timor’s future through regional integration.
