Vietnam and Timor-Leste share a longstanding friendship. Despite the geographical distance between the two countries, they have maintained close ties and supported each other in international forums, particularly during struggles for national independence.

Over the past two decades, bilateral relations have continued to strengthen through high-level exchanges and expanding cooperation across a broad range of sectors.

Most recently, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, the Philippines.

In April, Vietnam officially opened its embassy in Timor-Leste.

The two countries have significant potential for cooperation in agriculture, oil and gas, fisheries, infrastructure development, trade in agricultural products, textiles, consumer goods, industrial machinery and electrical equipment, as well as education, culture and tourism.

Both sides have agreed to further strengthen cooperation and coordinate positions at regional and international forums. Timor-Leste officially joined ASEAN last year.

ASEAN Future Forum 2026

Held under the theme "Shaping Our Common Future Together: Peace, Prosperity and People-Centred Development," the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 will bring together key leaders of Vietnam's Party and State, senior officials from ASEAN member states, leaders of international organizations, research institutions, businesses and local authorities from Vietnam and abroad.

The forum is expected to feature addresses by senior leaders from several ASEAN countries, including three prime ministers from ASEAN member states.

Participation will be broader than in previous editions, with representatives from more than 10 political parties across the region expected to attend policy discussions.

Around 20 city leaders from across ASEAN are also expected to take part in the forum.

Tran Thuong