Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and Timor-Leste have agreed to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, education, health, tourism, and security as Dili prepares to join ASEAN as its 11th member. Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao emphasized the significance of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit as a milestone in bilateral relations, which were established in 2002.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gusmao described the discussions as warm and productive, with both nations committing to enhance their bilateral relations in key sectors such as trade, investment, higher education, health, and tourism. He highlighted the importance of education and training, particularly through new scholarships and institutional partnerships. Additionally, Gusmao announced new air services and visa-free arrangements to facilitate travel between the two countries, which he believes will promote cultural understanding and strengthen people-to-people ties.
Gusmao expressed gratitude for Malaysia's consistent support for Timor-Leste's development and its aspirations to join ASEAN. He mentioned shared views on regional and global issues, including peace, democracy, and the situation in Palestine, where both countries call for an end to violence and adherence to international law.
Prime Minister Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to supporting Timor-Leste's ASEAN membership bid and broader cooperation initiatives. He discussed mechanisms to enhance bilateral relations, focusing on investments in trade, tourism, education, health, and energy. Anwar noted that Timor-Leste has made significant efforts to accelerate the ASEAN membership process, and Malaysia is proud to host the event where Timor-Leste will officially become a full ASEAN member.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the high level of trust between the two nations, extending to connectivity, defense, procurement, training, and information sharing. He acknowledged common maritime challenges such as illegal fishing and security, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing these issues.
Anwar also commented on the situation in Myanmar, noting encouraging engagement and the cessation of bombings with ASEAN's support. He mentioned Malaysia's contribution of a field hospital in the region. Anwar cited ASEAN's mediation success in Thailand and Cambodia, which helped prevent violence escalation.
Regarding the Middle East, Anwar reiterated Malaysia's strong position against the violence in Gaza, condemning the ongoing bombings that harm civilians. Both leaders committed to continued collaboration at bilateral and multilateral levels to deepen cooperation and enhance regional peace and stability.