Anwar's Visit A Testament To Malaysia-Timor-Leste Enduring Friendship - Ramos-Horta
From V. Sankara
DILI (TIMOR-LESTE), Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Timor-Leste President Dr José Ramos-Horta described the inaugural two-day visit by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to the country as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations, recalling Malaysia’s unwavering support during Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence.
He said talks with Anwar were constructive and focused on the future, including greater Malaysian investment in agribusiness, tourism and renewable energy, as well as education and vocational training for Timorese youth.
The president also announced that, tomorrow, Anwar will be conferred the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, the nation’s highest award, in recognition of his long-standing advocacy and Malaysia’s role in supporting the country’s ASEAN aspirations, especially as the ASEAN Chair for 2025.
“This award honours his personal commitment and Malaysia’s pivotal support. Timor-Leste and Malaysia are not just neighbours but partners in building a united and prosperous Southeast Asia,” he said during their joint press briefing at the Presidential Palace here.
Meanwhile, Anwar noted his long personal friendship with Ramos-Horta, calling the visit both official and personal, as well as significant, rooted in the shared history of both countries and Malaysia’s consistent support before and after Timor-Leste’s independence.
The Prime Minister also stressed priorities in trade, investment, tourism, education and defence cooperation between the two countries, while welcoming the involvement of Petronas and Malaysian private firms.
“Your (Timor-Leste) accession to ASEAN is only a matter of time. Malaysia looks forward to celebrating Timor-Leste’s membership at the ASEAN Summit in October,” he said.
Timor-Leste will be officially admitted as ASEAN’s 11th member at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur next month.
-- BERNAMA
