Singapore Enhances STARS Package to Support Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Integration

SINGAPORE, July 14 – Singapore has launched an enhanced version of the Singapore–Timor-Leste ASEAN Readiness Support (STARS) package to bolster Timor-Leste’s preparations for full membership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and to support the country’s long-term national development.

The announcement was made by Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during an official luncheon hosted in honor of Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, who is on an official visit to the city-state from Sunday to Wednesday.

Prime Minister Wong said the upgraded STARS package will provide customized assistance to help Timor-Leste accede to key ASEAN agreements. It will also include specialized training aligned with Timor-Leste’s national priorities, as well as leadership development programs and scholarships for young leaders.

“Timor-Leste’s upcoming accession to ASEAN is a significant milestone, both for your country and for ASEAN,” said Wong. “Singapore looks forward to welcoming you warmly to the ASEAN family, and we will continue to stand with you on this journey.”

First launched in 2002, the STARS initiative was designed to equip Timorese officials with the skills and knowledge necessary for ASEAN membership. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, over 1,100 Timorese officials have participated in programs under the STARS package and the Singapore Cooperation Programme.

Prime Minister Gusmão is joined on his visit by several senior officials, including Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs, Tourism, and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Bendito dos Santos Freitas.

Timor-Leste is expected to be officially admitted as the 11th member of ASEAN at the 47th ASEAN Summit, which will take place in October in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In a joint communiqué released after the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held recently, ASEAN leaders reaffirmed their support for Timor-Leste’s early accession to core ASEAN economic agreements, a crucial step for its full integration into the regional bloc.