Hun Manet attends ASEAN summit as Hun Sen welcomes Timor-Leste’s admission

On October 26, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet led a delegation to the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At the opening ceremony, he joined other ASEAN leaders in signing the declaration formally admitting the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member. The report describes the admission, after 14 years of effort, as Timor-Leste’s full integration into the ASEAN family and a fresh impetus for regional cooperation and integration. Hun Manet said Cambodia welcomed Timor-Leste and would remain a firm partner supporting its active participation in regional affairs. ASEAN leaders discussed regional security, economic cooperation and sustainable development during the summit. Timor-Leste’s admission was viewed as a milestone for ASEAN unity and cohesion, offering new opportunities for peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen promptly sent a letter to Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, congratulating and welcoming the country’s government and people. He said admission recognised Timor-Leste’s longstanding efforts and would bring fresh energy to ASEAN unity and cooperation. He stressed that bilateral friendship would be strengthened under ASEAN, advancing sustainable development and lasting prosperity for the ASEAN community. Compiled by this station.