East Timor Joins ASEAN as 11th Member: A Historic Milestone for Asia's Youngest Nation

Oct 26, 2025 03:17 pm CST

East Timor has officially become the 11th member of ASEAN after a 14-year application process. This historic achievement represents both a diplomatic milestone and economic opportunity for Asia's youngest nation, fulfilling a vision championed by President Jose Ramos-Horta since the 1970s. The membership offers potential growth for East Timor's developing $2 billion economy while strengthening regional cooperation in Southeast Asia.