East Timor's foreign minister Zacarias da Costa says his country is keen to work closely with Melanesian countries to assist them in economic development.

The comment comes ahead of his visit to Vanuatu with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao this week. "We have a lot in common with the Pacific region – culturally in terms of linguistically, but also in terms of wants and ties of friendship," Mr da Costa said.

The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) granted East Timor observer status earlier this year. Mr da Costa said East Timor would play an advisory role to the MSG on economic and fiscal matters.

"Being part of this important group – MSG – is also part of our strategy of regional integration," he said.