Manila – The Philippines reiterated its support for the inclusion of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said the Philippines continue to support Timor-Leste's application to become the 11th member of the ASEAN, saying the island nation belongs to Southeast Asia and "should be granted its rightful place in the ASEAN community".

"We reiterate our support for Timor-Leste's membership in ASEAN, whose integration in ASEAN should be viewed from an overall strategic standpoint," del Rosario added.

The DFA said the Philippines and Timor-Leste have maintained a strong partnership since the establishment of bilateral relations in May 2002.

Del Rosario met with Timor-Leste foreign minister Hernani Coelho Da Silva at the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last August 4.

Del Rosario said he hopes Timor-Leste could continue participating in courses offered by the Foreign Service Institute of the Department of Foreign Affairs, which is aimed at the professional development of Timor-Leste diplomats.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/08/06/15/ph-backs-timor-lestes-inclusion-asean