TOKYO, 27 November 2025 — Counselor Célio Moniz represented the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in Japan at a meeting of the ASEAN Committee in Tokyo, marking the country’s first official participation since becoming ASEAN’s 11th member.
The meeting, chaired by the Ambassador of Myanmar, brought together ambassadors and senior representatives of ASEAN missions in Japan. Discussions covered a range of regional and international issues, including Japan’s current foreign policy direction, the Prime Minister’s recent remarks on Taiwan, updated regulations on the entry of foreign nationals, and responses to natural disasters affecting Southeast Asia. Member states also conveyed their congratulations to Timor-Leste on its historic accession to the regional grouping.
H.E. Efendy Adl Ghani, Ambassador of Malaysia and ASEAN Chair for 2025, briefed participants on the outcomes of the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur. Key highlights included Timor-Leste’s formal admission, amendments to the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), developments related to the Thailand–Cambodia ceasefire, enhanced cooperation against transnational crime and maritime security threats, and the continued reaffirmation of ASEAN Centrality. He also noted the upcoming transition of the ASEAN Chairmanship from Malaysia to the Philippines in 2026.
Mr. Kunihiko Hirabayashi, Chair of the ASEAN–Japan Centre, provided an update on the evolving partnership between Southeast Asia and Japan. He underscored the steady trajectory of cooperation, ASEAN’s growing demographic and digital relevance, and Japan’s continued commitment to regional engagement, including accelerated implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph and an official dinner hosted by the Embassy of Myanmar, reflecting the spirit of unity and cooperation among ASEAN missions in Tokyo.
