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India Announces Embassy Opening in Dili, Timor-Leste

  • 11 Sep 2023

On 7th 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.