Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate, has congratulated President of Timor-Leste José Manuel Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão on the country’s accession to ASEAN in October this year.
“On behalf of the Senate of Cambodia and my behalf, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to your Excellency, the Government, the National Parliament, and the people of your nation of Timor-Leste on its forthcoming accession to ASEAN as a full member during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025, after its admission in principle as the 11th member of ASEAN at the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in 2022,” he wrote in his separate messages dated May 26.
Hun Sen added that upon learning of the announcement about Timor-Leste’s forthcoming full membership in ASEAN at the 46th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, by Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and ASEAN Chair, he was heartened to see the dedicated labour of Timor-Leste government and people over the years so deservedly recognised.
This milestone marks a proud moment not only for Timor-Leste, but also the whole ASEAN Family, as we take great strides together in solidarity amidst the complex challenges of the fast-changing global landscape.
“As a longstanding friend, Cambodia has wholeheartedly supported Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership, which will undoubtedly enrich our collective efforts to promote unity, inclusiveness, and sustainable development across Southeast Asia. In the face of an increasingly complex global landscape, Timor-Leste’s inclusion strengthens our shared vision for a resilient and cohesive ASEAN Community,” he underlined.
Hun Sen concluded his messages with his commitment to working closely with the Timor-Leste side in the spirit of enduring friendship and now as fellow members of ASEAN – to advancing their collective aspirations for the region and beyond. AKP
