In a significant diplomatic move, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong support for the full membership of Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This endorsement reflects Indonesia’s commitment to regional integration and the strengthening of ASEAN’s unity and centrality.
Timor-Leste’s Path to ASEAN Membership
Timor-Leste, the world’s youngest nation, has been striving for full ASEAN membership since its independence in 2002. Despite being an observer since 2002 and a member of the ASEAN Regional Forum since 2005, its accession has faced challenges due to concerns over its economic development and institutional readiness. However, recent developments indicate a shift towards acceptance.
In 2019, ASEAN conducted a fact-finding mission to assess Timor-Leste’s readiness for membership. The findings were positive, noting the country’s commitment to ASEAN’s three pillars: Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural Communities. Public opinion surveys have shown overwhelming support for ASEAN membership both within Timor-Leste and across the region. A 2023 survey revealed that 61.5% of ASEAN respondents favored Timor-Leste’s accession, citing benefits such as enhanced regional unity and economic integration.
President Prabowo’s support aligns with this regional sentiment. He has emphasized that Timor-Leste’s membership would not only bolster ASEAN’s unity but also provide the country with opportunities for economic development and regional cooperation. Indonesia, as the largest ASEAN member, plays a pivotal role in advocating for Timor-Leste’s integration into the bloc.
Papua New Guinea’s ASEAN Aspirations
Papua New Guinea, sharing a border with Indonesia, has been an ASEAN observer since 1976. Despite its geographical location outside Southeast Asia, PNG has expressed a strong desire for full membership. The country’s leaders have consistently lobbied for inclusion, citing shared political and economic interests with ASEAN members. In 2015, PNG appointed a special envoy to engage with ASEAN, signaling its commitment to the regional organization.
President Prabowo’s recent discussions with PNG Prime Minister James Marape underscore Indonesia’s support for PNG’s ASEAN aspirations. During their meeting, Prabowo highlighted the complementary nature of the two countries’ economies and the potential for enhanced cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, mining, and education. He extended an invitation for PNG’s youth to study at Indonesia’s Defense University, fostering deeper people-to-people ties.
Prabowo’s advocacy for PNG’s ASEAN membership is grounded in strategic considerations. Integrating PNG into ASEAN would strengthen regional security and economic ties, particularly in areas of mutual interest. Moreover, it would enhance ASEAN’s geopolitical influence in the Pacific region, countering external powers’ growing presence.
Strategic Implications for ASEAN
President Prabowo’s support for Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea’s full ASEAN membership reflects a broader strategic vision for Southeast Asia. By advocating for the inclusion of these nations, Indonesia aims to promote a more cohesive and resilient ASEAN. This expansion would not only diversify the bloc’s economic base but also strengthen its collective voice in regional and global affairs.
Furthermore, integrating Timor-Leste and PNG aligns with ASEAN’s goal of fostering inclusive development and regional stability. It would provide these countries with access to ASEAN’s economic initiatives and security mechanisms, facilitating their growth and integration into the regional community.
Conclusion
President Prabowo Subianto’s endorsement of Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea’s full membership in ASEAN signifies a forward-thinking approach to regional integration. By supporting the inclusion of these nations, Indonesia is not only enhancing ASEAN’s unity and centrality but also contributing to a more stable and prosperous Southeast Asia. As ASEAN continues to evolve, the inclusion of Timor-Leste and PNG represents a step towards a more inclusive and dynamic regional community.
