The Philippines is looking to forge stronger defense ties with Timor-Leste as the young nation formally joins the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for a new chapter of regional cooperation and security.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. expressed Manila’s intent to develop a closer defense partnership with Dili during a bilateral meeting with Timor-Leste Defense Minister Rear Admiral Donaciano Do Rosario Da Costa Gomes on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur on 31 October.

In a statement released Saturday, the Department of National Defense (DND) said both officials recognized the “many historical, geographical, and cultural similarities” between the Philippines and Timor-Leste, which could serve as a foundation for stronger bilateral relations.

“Building on these commonalities, Secretary Teodoro and Minister Gomes agreed to explore the formalization of defense cooperation,” the DND said.

The two defense officials discussed possible collaboration in key areas such as maritime security, disaster risk resilience, and people-to-people exchanges, noting the shared challenges and opportunities faced by both nations in ensuring regional peace and stability.

Teodoro and Gomes also reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation within the ASEAN framework, emphasizing the importance of collective security and prosperity in the region.

During the meeting, Minister Gomes expressed interest in visiting the Philippines to further strengthen defense relations and explore concrete areas of partnership.

“Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation, contributing to the promotion of regional peace, stability, and prosperity within the ASEAN community,” the DND added. 

Timor-Leste’s accession to ASEAN as its 11th member was formalized last week through the signing of the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN during the opening ceremony of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings.