ASEAN Must Be A Bridge Builder Amid Global Rivalries -- Ramos-Horta

By V. Sankara

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- ASEAN can play a greater role as a “bridge builder” to ease tensions between major powers and prevent regional conflicts, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta said.

In a special interview on Bernama TV’s Timor-Leste’s Next Chapter: With ASEAN and Malaysia, he said Timor-Leste’s contribution to the bloc would be to remain peaceful and democratic while supporting ASEAN’s larger role in global affairs.

“Our obligation is to keep Timor-Leste peaceful, democratic and open. Beyond that, ASEAN can and must be a bridge builder between China, the United States (US) and the European Union (EU) – to reduce tensions, prevent confrontations and avoid escalation in disputes such as the South China Sea,” he said.

Ramos-Horta, who described the impending ASEAN accession as “a major milestone and another golden chapter” in Timor-Leste’s history, added that the regional bloc’s strength lies in its diversity and inclusiveness.

“Majorities must make a greater effort so that minorities feel embraced. No one – whether from an ethnic or religious group – should be left behind,” he said.

With regard to Myanmar, he urged an inclusive national dialogue “without preconditions”, saying the priority should be to end violence and gradually build an inclusive political system.

The Nobel Peace Laureate also underlined Timor-Leste’s domestic priorities, citing education and youth development as central to the nation’s future and its ability to contribute to ASEAN.

Ramos-Horta expressed his gratitude to Malaysia and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for their steadfast support of Timor-Leste’s bid for ASEAN membership.

“We will be a loyal and steady friend to all other ASEAN members,” he said.

The youngest nation in Southeast Asia is set to be officially admitted as the 11th member of ASEAN during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur at the end of this month.

Gaining its independence on May 20, 2002, Timor-Leste formally applied to join ASEAN in 2011.

The accession will mark a significant milestone for the regional bloc, as Timor-Leste becomes the first new member in 26 years.

-- BERNAMA