Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono conveyed his government's full support for Timor Leste's intention to join the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year, local media reported on Thursday.

President Yudhoyono's support was conveyed during his meeting with Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao in Bali Democracy Forum (BDF) inaugurated Thursday by the president.

Speaking at the third BDF summit, Xanana said that Timor Leste joining would bring positive atmosphere to all ASEAN state members. "In terms of geopolitical and geo-strategic sectors, we understood that should Timor Leste is accepted in ASEAN, it will bring positive impacts to the other state members," Xanana was quoted by the Detik.com as saying.

"Timor Leste is able to contribute stability and peace in the region," he added.Regarding Timor Leste's intention, President Yudhoyono said that Indonesia will always fully support it.

As the country that will chair ASEAN next year, President Yudhoyono said that Indonesia would convey this to the other ASEAN state members. "I hope that Timor Leste can join ASEAN in the near future," President Yudhoyono said.