India Announces Embassy Opening in Dili, Timor-Leste

• 11 Sep 2023

On 7^th September, 2023, Indian Prime Minister, speaking at the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, unveiled India's plan to establish an embassy in Dili, Timor-Leste.

Key Points

• Historic City: Dili, situated on Timor-Leste's north coast, holds historical significance as it symbolizes the nation's struggles for independence from both Portugal and Indonesia.
• Diplomatic Relations: India has maintained diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste for an extended period and played a role in its journey toward independence.
• India was represented at Timor-Leste's Independence Day celebrations in May 2002 by a high-level delegation.
• Formal Diplomatic Ties: Formal diplomatic relations between India and Timor-Leste were established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on January 24, 2003.
• ASEAN Observer Status: Timor-Leste initially held observer status in ASEAN before becoming a full member in 2022.
• Embassy Opening Reflects Importance: India's decision to open an embassy in Dili underscores the significance it places on ASEAN and its relationship with Timor-Leste.
• ASEAN and India: Prime Minister highlighted that ASEAN is a central pillar of India's 'Act East' policy and plays a crucial role in India's Indo-Pacific initiative.