10 January 2014 - In line with its commitment to deepen cordial ties with Timor-Leste’s government and to support ASEAN’s community-building efforts, the Philippine Embassy in Dili hosted a casual year-end gathering on 28 December 2013.

Dr. Roberto Sarmento De Oliveira Soares, Timor-Leste’s Secretary of State for ASEAN Affairs, was the guest of honor. Officers and staff of the other resident ASEAN Embassies in Dili and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste were also invited to the gathering.

Team-building activities were held to build camaraderie and friendship among the participants.

In his simple message, Secretary Soares conveyed his appreciation to Philippine Ambassador María Aileen H. Bugarín for initiating such undertaking aimed at fostering goodwill and solidarity between Timor-Leste and ASEAN member states. END