JAKARTA, April 2 — Asean secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn has encouraged Timor-Leste to swiftly meet the requirements outlined in the roadmap for its full membership in Asean.
He also reiterated the Asean Secretariat's unwavering support during talks with Timor-Leste government members today.
Kao is on an official visit to Dili from April 1 to April 4, at the invitation of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister Bendito dos Santos Freitas, according to the Asean Secretariat on its website.
Earlier, during a courtesy call to President José Ramos-Horta at the Presidential Palace, he lauded Timor-Leste’s eagerness and efforts towards Asean membership.
He reaffirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to assisting Timor-Leste in meeting Asean's requirements and enhancing its capacity building.
Besides holding discussions with Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and Minister Freitas, Kao also met with the National Parliament President and Head of Parliamentary Benches Maria Fernanda Lay.
He urged the National Parliament to provide full legislative support to Timor-Leste’s journey towards Asean membership and expressed confidence in the mutual benefits for Asean and Timor-Leste through membership.
— Bernama
