(Phnom Penh): Timorese President J. Ramos-Horta thanked Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen for his congratulatory message on the occasion of the accession of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste as the 11th Member State of the ASEAN, according to the letter seen by Fresh News on Tuesday (Jan. 6).

The letter reads:

"I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of Your Excellency’s letter dated 26 October 2025, on the occasion of the accession of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste as the 11th Member State of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Allow me to express my profound gratitude for the warm congratulations conveyed to the State, the Government, and the People of Timor-Leste on this historic occasion. Full accession to ASEAN represents the culmination of a long-standing national aspiration, achieved through persistent effort, constructive dialogue, and the solidarity of our partners and friends in the region — among whom the Kingdom of Cambodia holds a place of special appreciation.

Timor-Leste duly recognizes the decisive role played by Your Excellency in the process that led to the recognition and in-principle admission of Timor-Leste as a future member during the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits held in Cambodia. This display of visionary leadership significantly contributed to the consolidation of the path we celebrate today.

We fully share the vision of a cohesive, peaceful, and resilient ASEAN, oriented towards the sustainable development of our peoples. Timor-Leste is firmly committed to contributing actively and responsibly to the strengthening of the ASEAN Community, reinforcing dialogue, regional cooperation, and shared prosperity.

I am confident that the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Timor-Leste and the Kingdom of Cambodia will continue to deepen, now further strengthened by our shared membership in the ASEAN family.

With sentiments of mutual esteem, respect, and conviction in the peaceful settlement of differences, I reiterate my readiness to work together in advancing our common goals.

In the spirit of the festive season, I also extend my warmest wishes for a blessed Christmas to Your Excellency and the people of Cambodia. May this season bring peace, unity, and renewed hope, strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation as we look forward to a peaceful and prosperous New Year for all."
=FRESH NEWS