(Dili): Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen expressed strong confidence that Timor-Leste will soon attain full membership in ASEAN.

Samdech Techo met with Timorese President José Ramos-Horta on Thursday (May 8) at the Presidential Palace in Dili, Timor-Leste.

Samdech Techo reaffirmed Cambodia’s unwavering support for Timor-Leste’s bid to join ASEAN. Drawing a comparison, he recalled Cambodia’s accession in 1999, when its GDP per capita stood at just USD 281—significantly lower than Timor-Leste’s current GDP per capita of USD 1,453. In light of current conditions, Samdech Techo stated that Timor-Leste is well-positioned for full ASEAN membership.

President José Ramos-Horta warmly welcomed Samdech Techo and his high-level delegation, describing Cambodia as a close and valued friend of Timor-Leste. He expressed sincere gratitude for Samdech Techo’s continued advocacy for Timor-Leste, particularly during Cambodia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2022, which led to the country being granted observer status and laid the foundation for eventual full membership.

For his part, Samdech Techo thanked the government and President of Timor-Leste for the generous hospitality extended during the visit. He reminisced about his previous visit to the country in 2016 and noted its significant progress since that time. He also conveyed warm greetings and a royal message from His Majesty the king of Cambodia to the Timorese president.

Samdech Techo expressed profound appreciation for the exceptional welcome extended by the Timorese side, noting that such a gesture exemplified the strength of the bilateral relationship. He further highlighted the 23 years of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Timor-Leste since 2002 and expressed his hope for further cooperation in the future.

President José Ramos-Horta voiced his honour and pride in hosting Samdech Techo and his delegation. He described Timor-Leste as a close and exceptional friend of Cambodia and praised Samdech Techo as one of the most influential figures in Southeast Asia. He also recognized Samdech Techo as a liberator of Cambodia from genocide and a founder of modern Cambodia, saying it was a privilege for him, his government, and the people of Timor-Leste to welcome such a distinguished guest.

He reiterated his gratitude for Cambodia’s steadfast support and expressed hope that Timor-Leste would soon become a full ASEAN member. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues. To conclude, Samdech Techo extended a royal invitation from Cambodian king for President Ramos-Horta to visit Cambodia at any appropriate time.
=FRESH NEWS