14 May 2014 - Upon the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste, Philippine Ambassador to Timor-Leste María Aileen H. Bugarín delivered a presentation on the ASEAN Political Security Community (APSC) last April 30. The seminar was attended by policymakers, local NGO members and university faculty members and students.

In her lecture, Ambassador Bugarín discussed how the APSC came into being. She also shared the Philippine Government’s insights and perspectives on the progress and challenges of implementing the APSC Blueprint.

At the end of her presentation, Timor-Leste Secretary of State for ASEAN Affairs Roberto Sarmento de Oliveira Soares thanked the Ambassador for her “very comprehensive presentation.” He also noted that the lecture supports and complements the Timor-Leste Government’s efforts of mainstreaming ASEAN especially since the country is aspiring to become a member of the regional organization.

Timor-Leste, which is Asia’s newest democracy, had formalized in 2011 its application for ASEAN membership. The Philippines fully supports Timor-Leste’s bid to join ASEAN. END